
Book 



^ 

A^^ 



Copyright ]^^.. 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSre 



\' 1^^ 



CONTENTS. 

[See Alphabetical Index at the end of the Hand-book.] 



Page. 

FKEFACE V 

Ge^ ^:RAL. INFORJIATION vii 

c jtels, vii— Lodgings, vii— Boarding, viii— Restaurants, viii— 
Railroads, viii— Steamers, ix— Street Cars, ix — Vehicles for 
hire, xii— City Post Office, xii— Mails, xii— Rates of Postage, 
xiii — Telegraph Offices, xiii— Churches, xiii— Theatres, xiv — 
General Amusements, xiv — Etiquette, Ceremonies, and For- 
nalities, xiv— Distances from Washington, xix — Foreign Dis- 
tances, xix— Differences of Time, xx. 

Section I. 

W .':oVHESrGTON AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 1 

Vfashington, 1 — District of Columbia, 5. 

Section II. 

Dii->CRIPTI0N of the CITY 16 

A'?enues, Squares, Statues, &c. 

Section III. 

PCULIC BULLDINGS AND GROUNDS 55 

Historical Retrospect, 55— Capitol, 56 — History of Congress, 
il8 — President's House, 121 — Department of State, 128— Treas- 
ury Department, 131 — War Department, 136— Navy Depart- 
ment, 140— Department of the Interior, 142— Patent Office, 
145— General Post Office, 151— Department of Justice, 154 — 
Department of Agriculture, 15G— Naval Observatory, 163— 
Army Medical Musuem, 166 — Governm»-nt Printing Office, 
168— VNinder's Building, 170— City Hall, 171— Arsenal, 172— 
Kavy-Yard, 174 — Marine Barracks, 176- Magazines 177 

Section IV. 
.^ICES of General Interest 178 

<i;o ithsonian Institution, 178— Corcoran Gallery of Art, 189 — 
Washington National Monument, 192"Armory, 196--Churche8, 
197 -Hails, 198— Newspaper Offices, 199— Public Schools, 201— 
Asylums, 202— Cemeteries, 205— District Government, 207— 
tfArkets, 209— Places of Historical Interest, 210. 

(iii) 



IV CONTENTS. 

Section V. 
The Environs of Washington 211 

S E c T I o N V I . 

History of Washington 234 

Index 244 



Abbreviations. 

N., S., E., W., north, northern, northward, south, &c., 
east, &c., west., &c. ; m., mile; sq. m., square mile ; lbs., 
pounds; r., right; 1., left'; hr., hour; min., minute; yr , 
year; a., acres; av., avenue; st., street; yds., yards. 



PEEFACE. 



The necessity of a reliable and complete DESCRiPrrvE 

AND HiSTORICAIi HAND-BOOK TO THE CAPITAL, OF THE 

United States has long been felt. Warden's Geograpliical 
and Statistical Description of the District of Columbia, pub- 
lished in Paris in 1816, and the several editions of the Guides 
compiled by William Elliott, 1826 and 1830, and George Wat- 
terson, 1848, are really the only ones which possess the merit 
of original research. The productions of a similar character 
published since 1848, and especially the later ones, have been 
crude and imperfect, impositions in character and price, and 
noticeable only as containing the smallest amount of informa- 
tion for the largest amount of money. 

The compiler of the present work hopes to avoid these 
objections at least, and to give to the public a Hand-book 
of attractive and useful descriptive information about all 
places of interest in and around Washington, and at the 
same time to supply some appropriate historical data which 
may be valuable to carry away as a souvenir of a visit to the 
Seat of Government. 

In the preparation of the historical portions of the Hand- 
book to Washington and its Environs, original author- 
ities only have been examined, including the manuscript rec- 
ords, correspondence, and proceedings of the Commissioners 
charged with the superintendence of the building of the city, 
1791-1800 ; the correspondence of George Washington, Thom- 
as Jefferson, and others on the same subject ; tlie Statutes at 
Large ; oflScial documents, from the establishment of the per- 
manent Seat of Government down to the present time; besides 
the writings of travelers and public men and files of news- 
papers. 

Kespecting the descriptive features, all points of interest 
in the city and surroundings, still in existence, have been 
personally visited and inspected. 

It is hoped, therefore, that the Hand-book will prove not 
only an invaluable companion on the spot, but an ever-wel- 
come and entertaining friend for future perusal and refer- 
ence at the home fireside. 

The compiler is under obligations to many of the officers 

(V) 



VI 



PREFACE. 



of the Grovemment ; and while desiring to recognize their 
kindness, finds it difficult to make distinctions by individuals : 
he therefore thanks them all. 

The general information has been compiled with special 
reference to the necessities of the stranger in the city, and, 
in connection with other useful matter, will be found to con- 
tain trustworthy intelligence respecting railways, hotels, 
churches, theatres, &c. The code of Etiquette in Washing- 
ton and Street-car Directory will be found particularly con- 
venient and valuable. 

The remaining features of the HAND-BOOK will appear as 
the reader familiarizes himself with its contents. 

In a city like the capital of such a constantly expanding 
Republic as the United States of America there are never- 
ending changes. To keep pace with these, it is the intention 
to annually revise and augment the Hand-book to Wash- 
ington AJsTD ITS Environs, so as to keep it at all times cor- 
rected to the latest period. 

The compiler does not presume that the Hand-book is 
faultless ; but to approximate such a degree of completeness, 
as far as practicable, will constantly be his endeavor. He 
will therefore be grateful for any errors or omissions pointed 
out or corrections suggested. These may be communicated 



by letter. 
Washington, D. C, 1879. 



DeB. R. K. 



PREFACE TO THE EDITION OF 1880. 

The success which has attended the earlier editions of 
this Handbook is accepted by the compiler as a sufficient 
guarantee of the public appreciation of its merit as the 
most complete and reliable work of the kind for reference 
and information ever published at the Capital. In view 
of this fact, the present edition has not only been thor- 
oughly revised, but the scope of information and number 
of illustrations materially enlarged. The illustrations are 
from wood by such eminent artists and engravers as Ross 
Turner, Schell, H. H. Nichols, and not by cheap, patent, 
mechanical processes, as in other works. K. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 




[HOSE who are influenced by a desire to visit the 
National Capital, when most attractive in point 
of beauty of nature and art, and without reference 
to tlie fashionable and congressional season, should 
arrive in May or June, or October or N'ovember. 
The hottest montlis are July and August. The 
winters, on the other hand, are generall}^ mild and beautiful, 
l^he health of the city at all seasons is unexceptionable. For 
official and social seasons see Etiquette. 

Hotels. — The National Capital has a number of hotels, 
some of which will compare favorably with the best in the 
country. They are all located upon or conveniently acces- 
sible to the different lines of street cars connecting the Ex- 
ecutive Departments with the Capitol and western and east- 
ern portions of the city. The following are the principal 
hotels and charges per day: The Arlington., Vermont av., 

near H st. N., Ehbitt, F st., corner of 14th st. W., Wdlards' , 

Pennsylvania av., corner of 14th st. W. Metroi>olitan, Pennsylvania av., 

between 6th and 7th sts. W. Imperial., E st. N., between 13th and 14th 

sts. W., National, Pennsylvania av.. corner of 6th st. W. I^^gsfsy 

Fifteenth st., bet. F ar^'l G sts. NW.. The St. James, corner Pennsylvania 

av. and 6th st. W., is en the European plan, rooms from $1 to J6. There are 
also other hotels on tb* American and European plans , suited to all classes, and 
at proportionate rates. 

Lodgings. — Persons desiring to pass some time in Wash- 
ington, and drsu'ous of living retired, can find excellent lodg- 
ings in the vi?inity of all the hotels, and in different parts of 
the city. The large transient population of the city has cre- 
ated an unusual demand for this style of accommodations, 
and every grade, from elegant suites down to unpretending 
single apartments, may be found. The rates for roome 
would range from $25 for single rooms to $100 and upwards 
a month for suites. Persons remaining less than a month 
can also be supplied with quarters. 

Boarling. — Many houses in which lodgings can be secured 
also provide daily board, ranging from $25 to $35 a month for 
each person. The hotels also accommodate outside boarders 
at $45 a month for each person, 
(vli) 



^IH GENERAL INFORMATION. 

Restaurants. — A number of excellent restaurants can be 
found in all the business portions of the city. Frequently 
persons find it more convenient to have lodgings and take 
their meals nearest vviiere they may happen to be at the 
hour of dining. The charges at restaurants are about the 
same as at hotels or boarding-houses, according to grade. 
There are several excellent restaurants equal in appoint- 
ments to any in the large cities of the North. Cuisine 
excellent. 

Railroads. — {See Table of Distances.) — Persons departing 
from Washington have a choice of routes to all parts of the 
United States. 

Depots. — The Baltimore and Ohio Railhoad for the North, East, and 
West, N. E. cor. New Jersey av. and C St., NW. 

Baltimore and Potomac Railroad for the North, South, East, and 
West, 6th St. immediately south of Pennsylvania av. 

Local trains, for Alexandria, leave the Baltimore and Potomac Depot at 
short intervals. 

The Bra7ichTicket Offices of each road are convenient to the principal hotels. 

Sleepitig Cars are attached to all through night trains. Tickets may be pro- 
cured at railroad ticket offices. 

Baggage will be called for and checked to all the principal cities of the United 
States, by leaving orders at the railroad ticket offices. 

Both depots may be reached by the Pennsylvania av., and F, and gth st 
lines of street railways. 

Steamers depart from Washington or Georgetown at 

stated times for Landings on the Potomac River and Chesapeake bay ; for 
Baltimore and Norfolk ; also for Philadelphia, New York and Boston. {See 
the daily prints.) The Wharves of all the Washington lines maybe reacned 
by the Pennsylvania av. street cars exchanging at 7th street going south. 

Street Oars. — All parts of Washington may be reached 

Capitol, North O., and South Washington Railway or "Belt Line," 
Incorporated 1875 cars every few minutes during the day, begins on Maryland 
av. and 3d, to 7th, through Virginia av. passing near the National Museum 
and the Smithsonian Institute ; through 12th st, passing the Dept. of Agricult- 
ure, to Ohio av., to 14 st W, to Pennsylvania av., through E st N. to 11 st W., 
thence, O st N (cars returning take P st instead of O si) to 4 st W,to G st N, 
into ist st W, pasing near the Capitol and the Botanical Garden, to Maryland 
av., to the starting point, making the circuit of the best portions of North and 
and South Washington. Intersects all the principal street railway lines. 

Uniontown and 7th St. W. Railway, (Potomac and Anacostia) runs 
from 7th st W, through M st S, to 11 st E, passing the Navy Yard, thence 
across the Navy Yarii Bridge to Uniontown. 

The tickets of one street railway are good on all other lines. Fare 5 cents 
six tickets for 25 cenis. E.vc/i.inges given on branches of the same line. 

Washington and Georgetown Street Railway, incorporated 1862, car> 
every few min. during the day, start on Bridge St., at High, Georgetown, cro.ss 
Rock ('reek over a fine iron bridge, follow Pennsylvania av. , passing Mills' 
Statue of Washington, Corcoran Art Gallery, Lafayette Square, War Depart- 
ment, President's House, and Treasury. At 15th st. W. connect with the cars 
on the 1 4M 6"^'^.?^^ and Columbia Railways. Exchange tickets given for the 
former. At the S. end of the Treasury they again enter Pennsylvania av., 
which they follow the entire length of the business quarter of the city, ';assir<cr 
the e entre Market Botanical Garden and naval monument. At Qih st. W chf^C 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 



The Baltimore and Potomac Passenger Station, Washington^ 
on 6th St., W., one square south of Pemisylvauia Aveuue, 
reached by the "F St," changing at 9th St., W., going S,, 
and conveniently by the Pennsylvania Ave. street cars, is a 
beautiful gothic edifice, designed by J. M. Wilson. 

It is built of brick, with courses of Ohio sandstone, the whole resting on a 
granite base. The taller tower \s 134 feet high to the finial. The main building 
Is 90x120 feet, and the iron passenger shed 110x510 feet. The interior is beau- 
tifully finished in native woods. Total cost, ^300,000. 




lilill!lfl',Li||ill|i|i!iiiri':;iiii,:i:!iii;)iii'' 11 ,.i !:, , ''w.'NiiMfi^iii'aiiLd'ii' 

Tlie Assassination of President Gurjiclil. It was in the 
ladies room, after entering from B St., that President Gar- 
field was shot down by the assassin Guiteau. 

The silver star in the floor marks where the President fell. A beautiful mural 
tribute, in the wall near by, representing a tablet with the Roman fasces on eithei 
side, and an American eagle resting on the top, bears the inscription, " yamet 
Abram Garfield, President of the United States. July 2, 1S81." It was 
•■Kccuted by W. Struthers & Sons, Phila., cost ^613, and erected by the comoanv 



X GENERAL INPORMATIOK. 

intercept the Metropolitan line N". and S. ; and at 7th st. W. 
connect with the cars of the 7th st. branch N". and S. On 
the latter exchange tickets are given. At the W. gate of the 
Capitol grounds one branch turns to the 1. for the Baltimore 
and Ohio Railroad Depot every 10 min. during the day, and 
the other to the r. for the Capitol or Navy Yard^ every 5 min. 
during the day. At the top of tlie hill a branch carries pas- 
sengers to the E. front of the House, or S. extension of the 
Capitol. The main line continues along B st. S. to Pennsyl- 
vania av., and thence to 8th st. E., thence passing the Marine 
Barracks to the Navy Yard. 

Fourteenth-Street Branch, cars every 10 min. dur- 
ing the day, start on New York av. at 15th st. W., NE. ol 
the Treasury Department, thence to 14th st., thence N. to 
boundary, passing the Fourteenth-Street Circle 
Department. Exchange tickets are given on the Pennsyl- 
vania av. line. 

Seventh-Street Branch, cars every 4 and 5 min. dur- 
ing the day, start at the boundary, follow the same street 
across the city to the Potomac river, passing the N". Market, 
Mount Vernon Place, Patent and Post Offices, and Odd- 
Fellows' Hall. At Massachusetts av. they intersect the Co- 
lumbia Railway, and at F st. N. the Metropolitan line. On 
Pennsylvania av. they connect with the main line. Ex- 
change tickets given E. or W. Tlie cars now pass the Cen- 
tre Market, cross the Mall, with tlie Smithsonion grounds on 
r., continuing to the wharves for the Alexandria, Mount 
Vernon, and other steamers. 

Metropolitan Railway, incorporated 1864, cars every 
4 min. during the day, start on 17th st., W. of the I^avy 
and New State Departments, follow 17th st. W., passing the 
State, War, and Navy Departments, and Corcoran Art Gal- 
lery to H St. ; liere the Georgetown branch leaves ; thence 
passing Lafayette Square to i4th st. ; thence to F st., inter- 
secting the 14th St. and Columbia Railways at New York 
av. ; connecting with the cars on the 9th st. branch N. and 
S., on which exchange tickets are given, passing the Patent 
and Post Offices, and intersecting the 7th st. line ; thence to 
5th St. ; tlience to Louisiana av.. passing Judiciary Square ; 
thence to Indiana av., passing the City Hall; thence to C 
St., passing the Baltimore and Ohio depot to Delaware av. ; 
thence to B st. N., where the E. Capitol branch leaves; 
thence to the Senate extension. 

Georgetown and East Capitol Street Branch, cars 
every 6 min. during the day. Same as the main ]-*ne going 
W. Cars leave that at H and 17th sts. NW. ; thence to Con- 
necticut av. ; thence to P st. at the Circle, intersecting the 



GENERAL INFORMATION. XI 

donnecticut av. and Park Railway ; thence along P st., cross- 
iug Rock Creek over a fine bridge, entering West St., George- 
tovvn ; thence to High ; thence to Fayette, where it passes tlie 
Convent of the Visitation ; thence to 2d ; thence to High ; 
thence to Dunbarton ; thence to Montgomery ; tlience to 
West, wliere the return traclv follows the outward, back to 
Washington. The East Capitol extension continues on B st. 
J^[. to 1st E.; thence to East Capitol st., and thence to Lin- 
coln Square, the present terminus. It will be extended E. 
on the same street to the Anacostia. 

XiNTH Street Branch, cars every 7 and 8 miu. during 
the day, start at Boundary; thence, passing Mount Vernon 
Place, the Patent Office and Masonic and Lincoln Halls, toB 
St. At N^ew York av. they intej-sect the Columbia Railway. 
At F st. exchange tickets are given E. and W. On B st. the 
cars pass the Centre Market, and intersect the 7th st. line. 
On Gtli St. they pass the Baltimore and Potomac Depot to Mis- 
souri av. ; thence to 4|- st. ; thence to the Arsenal gate. 

Silver Springs Branch, of Metropolitan road starts at 
the N. terminus of the 7th st. line, and follows ihe 7th st. 
road a distance of 1^ m., passing the Scheutzen Park and 
Howard University, and terminates at present at the road to 
the Soldiers' Home and Rock Creek Church. 

Columbia Railway, incorporated 1S70, cars every 10 
min. during the day, start on New York av. at loth st. W., 
XE. of the Treasury ; thence to H st. At 14th st. they cross 
the Metropolitan and 14th st. lines ; at 9th st. W. the Metro- 
politan, passing Mount Vernon Placc^ to Massachusetts av. 
At 7th St. tliey cross that line ; thence to H st. N. ; thence to 
the boundary, passing the Government Printing Office. At 
the terminus the Baltimore turnpike and Benning's Bridge 
road commence. 

Connecticut Avenue and Pabk Railway, incorpo- 
rated 1SG8. The Connecticut av. portion is used by the Me- 
tropolitan line to Georgetown. A car connects at the P-st. 
Circle, and runs to boundary. 



Further extensions of existing lines, and the construction 
Df new ones, are proposed, in some instances the roadway 
having akeady been laid. 



Xll GENERAL INFORMATION. 

Vehicles for hire.— Rates of fare established by law for 
hacks, cabs, or other vehicle for hire in the District of Co- 
lumbia. 

Bet. 5 a. m, and Bet. 12.30 a. m. 
12.30 a. m. and 5 a. m. 

For one or two passengers in a one- f Per h'r, 75 cts. Per hour, $1 12. 
horse vehicle. jPertripjTS cts. Per trip, $1 12. 

For one or two passengers, four- | Per hour, $1 50. Per hour, $2 25. 
seated vehicle drawn by two -< Per trip, ex- Pertrip, exceed- 
horses, within the city. ( ceed'glm.,$l. 1 m., $1 50. 

And for each additional passenger, 50 cts. 
One mile or less, one half these rates. 

For one or two passengers, four- p ^ ^^ g p j^ gg 25. 

w?i f^^^^^^w.^htrfoS^fn'Ir Per trip, exceed- Per trip, elceed- 
horses, from Washington to or ^ g qq . ^ ^ ^ ^^ 

from Georgetown. ' * * ^ ' ^ ' 

And for each additional passenger, 50 cts. 

One mile or less, one half these rates. 

One-horse vehicle does not include buggies and phaetons. 

In all cases wliere a vehicle is not engaged by the hour, it 
will be considered as being engaged by the trip. 

Special rates are charged for excursions. 

if there should be an overcharge, drive to the nearest police 
station, where officers in charge will immediately decide the 
case. 

In every case require a ticket of the driver before starting. 

City Post Office. On Louisiana av. S. side, near 7th and Pennsylvania 
av. NW. Hours for the .irrival and departure of the mails bulletined at the 
office. 

The Money Order Office is in the second story of the jome building. 
Open from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m. 

Telegraph Offices. Western Union, cor. 15th and Est. NV. Atlantic & 
Pacific, on Pennsylvania av. near 14th st. W, N. side. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 



iii; 



Churches. —The following list of places of religious worship 
is merely designed for the use of visitors in the city, and 
therefore embraces only the representative churches of each 
denomination. For convenience of reference, it is arranged 
alphabetically. The usual hour for service is 10.30 to 11 A. 
M. and 7 to 8 p. m., according to the season of the year. 



Baptist; E street, E ^ 
St N between 6 & 7 W.; ^ 
Calvary, cor H & 8 sts. ^ 
N W. g 

Catholic Roman ; pr 
St. Aloysius,cor I & N, s^ 
Capitol sts ; St. Domi- M 
nic, cor 6th & F sts g- 
3 W. ; St Matthew, cor ^ 

H&I5StsNM^. |: 

Congregational; ^^-- 
cor 10 & G sts N W. ;=: 

Episcopal Protest- =^ 
ant; Ascension, cor i2th ^ 
St and Massachusetts ^ 
av. NW ; Epiphany, G. |p; 
St between 13 & 14 ^ 
NW. St. John's, cor 16 ^ 
& H sts N W. p 

Episcopal Metho- ;yj 
DISt; Foundry jCorG & 
14 sts NW. Metropoli- 
tan,cor4^&CstsNW. 

Episcopal Metho- 
dist (South) ; Mt. Ver- 
non, cor 9 & K sts NW 

German Reformed; 
first, 6 and N sts N W, ; ^^^ 
German A M, English mL 
P M. W 

Hebrew ; Washing- ^ 
ton Hebrew congrega- 
tion, 8th st between H 
& I sts NW. Services 
every Friday 7 P. M & 
Sabbath (Saturday) o 
A.M. 

Lutheran ; Trinity, 
cor E & 4th sts NW.; 
Memorial N and 14th 
sts N W. 

Presbyterian; 
Fourth, 9th bet G & 
H sts NW ; New York 
av.. New York av be- 
tween 13 & 14 sts NW. 

Unitarian; All 
Souls', cor 14 & L sts 
NW. 

Universalist ; serv- 
ices in Talmage Hall, 
F between 9 & 10 sts. 

There are also many 
fine churches for col- 
ored people. 





The Ascensior? Chu-ch (page 197). 



XIV 



U ENEUAL J :,' FOH MATlON. 




The Census Office. 

Theatres. — The best places of amusement in the city are 
Ford's Opera House, on 9th st. W., immediately S. of Penn- 
sylvania av., and the National Theatre, on E st. N., bet. 13th 
and 14th sts. NW. Here the standard comedies and trage- 
dies and plays of the day are performed by excellent stock 
companies during the winter season, varied at intervals by 
Italian, German, or English opera, and the presence of the- 
atrical "stars." 

General Anmsements.— Concerts and lectures take place 
almost every night, and will aflbrd recreation for those who 
prefer this character of entertainment. 

Etiquette, Oeremonies, and Pormalities.— The population 
of Washington is divided into two classes : official and unoffi- 
cial, and society admits of the same classification. The first 
includes those* actively associated with the various branches 



GENERAL INFORMA'JION. XV 

and departments of the Govenimeut and retired officers of 
the Army and Xavy and families. The second inchides resi- 
dents in tlie capital not in official employment, and visitors. 

The Season. — Tlie fasliiouable season commences with 
the New Year's receptions, and ends with the beginnini^ of 
Lent. During this period life at the capital is extremely gay. 
The congressional season begins on the llrst Monday in De- 
cember of each year, and, with a recess daring the Christmas 
holidays, lasts till March 4 in the odd years and until June or 
July in the even years. During the months of July, August, 
and September, the prominent officials and residents leave the 
capital for places of summer resort. 

I\eceptions. — The reception season begins on New Year's 
day and lasts till the beginning of Lent. The days for after- 
noon receptions are arranged among the ladies of the families 
of the President, Cabinet Ministers, and Governor of the Dis- 
trict. The announcements are made daily during the season 
in the newspapers. Hours, afternoon, 2 to 5 p. m. ; evening, 
8 to 11 p. m. Afternoon receptions are open to all. Evening 
receptions are by card, unless otherwise announced in the daily 
new^spapers. 

Titles — The following are the forms of address used in 
conversation with certain officials, viz : Mr. Pi-esident ; to 
members of the Cabinet, Mr. Secretary, ^Mr. Postmaster Gen- 
eral, Mr. Attorney General ; Mr. Chief Justice, :Mi-. Vice Presi- 
dent, Mr. Senator, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Justice, for associates of 

the Supreme Court, and Mr. , for Representatives. The 

latter frequently have titles, as Judge, &c. Official commu- 
nications should be addressed, ''To the President, ''To the 
Chief Justice," and all others "To the Honorable, the Sec- 
retary of State," &c., or '^The Honorable D. W., Secretary of 
State;" and to members of Congress, Honorable, with the 
name. The form customary for ladies of officials, is Mrs. 

President ; Mrs. General ; Mrs. Secretary, &c. The 

following form of address for certain officers would be better 
than those now in vogue : For the Secretary of State, The 
Premier; other membei's of the Cabinet, Mr. Minister. 

Cards. — Whenever a visit is made or reception attended, 
a card, containing the name and residence in the city, should 
be sent in, or left witii the usher, or in the receiver in the 
hall. Cards left at afternoon receptions are generally recog- 
nized by cards to evening receptions. Cards are genei-ally 
issued to all evening receptions, except those of the President 
and Speaker of the House of Representatives, and sometimes 
the General of the Army. In private calls, if the person 
called upon be out, turn down the right upper corner of the 
card, to Indicate that called in person, if the call be upon 



XVI GENERAL INFORMATION. 

the family, under the same circumstances, turn down the 
right end. In making a farewell call, place P. P. C. on the 
lower edge of the card. 

A stranger, in calling upon officials, or at receptions, should, 
if his name be not announced by an usher or by card, men- 
tion it himself, so as to prevent embarrassment. 

Invitations. — In all cases, invitations to din.ner should 
be promptly accepted or declined. It is not obligatory to 
espond to invitations to evening entertainments, unless re- 
hired in the letters E. S. V. P., though it is proper to recog- 
ze them formally. Invitations to evening receptions do 

ot require a reply. The general form of reply is : Mr. S 

presents his compliments to Secretary , and accepts with 

pleasm-e liis inritation to dinner Thursday evening. Mon- 
day, Dec. — , 187 — . The form is the same, with adaptation, 
for evening entertainments. 

CaJjLS. — The ladies of officials return calls. The President 
and wife are not required to return calls ; other members of 
the family can. The lower officials should always call first 
upon the higher; and ladies the same ; hours 2 to 5 p. m. 
Evening calls only allowed for social acquaintances. The 
first visit received should be returned in three days. Stran- 
gers, desiring to pay respects to any officials, can do so with 
propriety during office hours, sending in a card, marked "to 
pay respects," by the usher. 

Dress. — For visiting and at all afternoon receptions such 
dress for ladies and gentlemen as is recognized in good soci- 
ety for morning calls should be worn. At all evening recep- 
tions and dinner parties^ full evening dress for ladies and 
gentlemen should be strictly observed ; consisting, for gen- 
tlemen, of black dress-coat and pantaloons, white neck-tie, 
and light gloves. 

The President. — Cabinet days^ Tuesdays and Fridays, 
hours of meeting 12 M. Business hours : During the session 
of Congress, the President receives Senators and Represen- 
tatives from 10 A. M. to 12 M. every day, except Sunday, and 
the public, by card through the usher in tlie ante-room, from 
12 M. till 3 P. M., except on Cabinet days and Sundays. The 
number admitted during hours is governed entirely by the 
time the President can spare from his pubhc duties. Persons 
desu-ing to pay their respects only, should note '''•to pay res- 
pects'''* on their cards, and call tlie attention of the officer in 
in the ante-room thereto. During the adjournment of Con- 
gi-ess, the President, when not absent from the Capital, usu- 
ally receives in tlie morning from 10 A. M. to 12 m. 
The President and family receive socially in the evening. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. XVll 

These visits, however, are only made by those warranted by 
their acquaintance *to call upon them. 

Diplomatic representatives of foreign governments, upon 
their fii-st arrival at the Capital, are presented in the Blue- 
Room, at a time fixed by the Secretary of State, with the 
consent of the President. The ceremony of presentation 
consists of an address by the Minister, and a reply by the 
President. 

The President's levees are announced through the press. 
?^o further invitation is necessary, and all strangers at the 
Capital are at liberty to call. The liours are usually from 8 
to 10 P.M. Music by the Marine Band. ISTo dress is pre- 
scribed, though it is eminently i^-oper to appear in the even- 
ing dress dictated by good society. Enter hj the N". door, 
where the ushers will direct to the cloak rooms. Then enter 
the Red, and pass into the Blue-Room, wiiere the President 
receives. Announce name to the Marshal of the District, 
who presents to the President. The Engineer in charge of 
Public Buildings and Grounds presents to the wife of the 
President. After paying respects, in order to make room 
for others, it is advisable to pass out at once into the Green 
and thence into the East-Room. 

The afternoon receptions at the President's House are al- 
ways held by the wife of the President, on such days as she 
may select. She is assisted by such ladies as she may invite, 
generally selected in alphabetical order from the wives of 
Senators and Members, who, by their official positions, arc 
entitled to such consideration, and any friend. Hours^ 2 to 
5 p. m. No invitations. Visitors in the city are at liberty 
to attend. The President, after office hours, often assists. 
Presentations are made in tlie Blue Room by the Engineer 
in charge of Public Buildings and Grounds. Approach as 
in levees, except that it is customary to leave a card at the 
door. Enter the Red Room. Dress the same as recognized 
by good society as suitable for morning calls. These recep- 
tions afford an excellent opportunity to strangers at the Cap- 
ital to view the suits of parlors, state dining room, and con- 
servatories. The latter are open to the public only on these 
occasions. After leaving the Blue Room, pass into the Green 
and East Rooms. The corridor which leads from the East 
Room extends to the conservatories on the W. end. The 
President, during the winter, gives state dinners^ to which 
thirty-six invitations at a time are issued, and comprise Sen- 
ators and Representatives, selected alphabetically. TheJr 
wives are also included. The President also invites promi- 
nent officers of the Government in recognized order. 

On New Yearns day the President receives in the following 



XVUl GENERAL INFORMATION. 

order: Members of the Cabinet and Foreign Ministers; 
judges of the Supreme Court of the Unite'd States ; Senators 
and Representatives in Congress ; the Governor of the Dis- 
trict of Cokimbia and suite; judges of the courts of the Dis- 
trict of Cokimbia and of the United States Court of Claims ; 
officers of the army and navy ; Assistant Secretaries of depan- 
ments ; Solicitor General ; associations and the public. 

Chief Justice and Judges of the Supreme Court. — ^La- 
dies receive on Monday. Return visits. First call must be 
made upon them. 

Speaker's receptions are announced in the newspapers. 

General, of the Army.— Reception of lady, Mondays. 
Expect the first call. The General's receptions are by card, 
unless otherwise announced in the newspapers. 

ADMiRAii of the Kavy. — Same as for General of the 
Army, except evening receptions always by card. 

The Cabinet.— The ladies of Cabinet Ministers usually 
/eceive on Wednesdays, at which time visitors in the city are 
at liberty to call, leave cards with and give names to the usher 
at the door. Evening receptions by card are given by Cabi- 
net Ministers. The ladies of the Cabinet return visits. The 
first call must be made upon them. 

Senators and Representatives. — Ladies receive on 
Thursdays. Calls must be &st made upon them. 

Governor of the District. — 



Diplomatic Corps. — Invitations are issued to all enter- 
tainments. Receive calls first. There are also diplomatic 
evenings for members of the corps and families, and such 
others as the lady personally invites. 

Residents. — The ladies of the families of residents at the 
capital not in official life, call first. Their days at home are 
generally marked on their cards. 

SociAJ. precedence.—]. The President; 2, the Chief 
J ustice ; 3, the Vice President ; 4, the Speaker ; 5, the Gen- 
eral of the Army; 6, the Admiral of the Navy; 7, the Cabi- 
net, Secretary of State, Treasury, War, Kavy, Postmaster 
General, Secretary of the Interior, and Attorney General ; 8, 
Senators ; 9, Associate Justices ; 10, Representatives in Con- 
gress; and, 11, Governor of the District. 

Remarks. — General Jackson first introduced bad manners 
into the societj^ of the President's House. The President, by 
virtue of his office, of a right occupies the highest social posi- 
tion in the land, and the observance of the formahties which 
are recognized in the surroundings of any American gentle- 
man's home should be accorded to the home of the President. 



GENERAL INFORMATION. 



XIZ 



Distances from Washington. 



Capitals of States or Territories are in capital letters. 



MILES. 

Albany, N.y 374 

Albuquerque, N.M..2156 

Alexandria, Va 7 

Annapolis, Md 42 

Atlanta, Ga 721 

Augusta. Me 631 

Austin. Texas 1781 

Baltimore, Md 40 

Boise City, Idaho. ..2GG7 

Boston, Mass 4.58 

Brownsville, Tex... 194(5 

Buffalo. N.Y 446 

Cairo, Illinois 977 

Carson City, Nev...2950 

Charleston, S. C 587 

Cheyenne. \Vy. T....1850 

Chicago, 111 842 

Cincinnati, Ohio.... 611 

Columbia, S. C 519 

Columbus, Ohio 535 

CONCOKD, N. H 503 

Deer LoDGE.Mon.T.2700 

Denver, Col. T 1950 

Desmoines, lovpa 1162 

Detroit, Mich 692 

Dover, Del. 159 

Duluth.Minn 1437 

Erie, Pa 466 

Fort Abercrombie,1507 
Fort Benton, M.T..3130 
Fort Berthold. D.T.21S6 
Fort Bliss, Tex .... 2523 
Fort Boise, Idaho..2669 



MILES. 

Fort Bridger, Wy.T.2349 
Fort Dodge, Kan. ..1586 

Fort Fetterman 1984 

Fort Gibson,Ch.Na.l387 

Fort Hays, Kan 1525 

Fort Klamath, Ore.3.320 
Fort Laramie, W.T.1906 
Fort Leaven\vorth..l2G3 
Fort Randall, D. T.1535 
Fort Smith, Ark... .1307 
Fort M avne, Ind... 694 

Fort Yuma, Cal 3881 

Frankfort, Ky 731 

Galveston, Texas. ..1556 

H.\RKISBURG, Pa 125 

Hartford, Conn 342 

Indianapolis, Ind... 715 

Jackson, Miss 1082 

Jefferson City, Mo.l077 
Kansas City, Mo. ...1234 

Lansing, Mich 742 

Leavenworth, Kan.1260 
Little Rock, Arli...lll5 

Louisville, Ky 720 

MADisoN,Wis 974 

Memphis. Tenn 934 

MiLLEDGEVILIj;, Ga.. 698 

Milwaukee, Wis 927 

Mobile, Ala 1082 

Montgomery, Ala... 896 

MONTPELIER, Vt 556 

Nashville. Tenn.... 775 
New Haven, Conn.. 307 



MILES. 

New Orleans, La....l250 

New York, N. Y 229 

Norfolk, Va 233 

Olympia, Wash. T...3982 

Omaha, Neb 1298 

Pensacola, Fla 1050 

Philadelphia, Pa.... 139 

Pittsburg, Pa 374 

PorJand, Ore 3952 

Provide.nce, R. 1 419 

Raleigh, N. C 313 

Richmond, Va 130 

Sacramento, Cal 3072 

Saint Louis, Mo 952 

Saint Paul, Minn..l285 

Salem, Ore 3834 

Salt Lake CityU.T.2464 
San Francisco. Cal.3155 
San Juan Is., W. T.4047 
Santa Fe, N. Mex...2093 

Savannah, Ga 691 

Tahlequah, Ind. T..1300 

Sitka, Alaska.., 4535 

Springfield, 111 92S 

Tallahassee, Fla..... 953 

ToPEKA,Kan 1302 

Trenton, N.J 170 

Tucson, Ar. T 2628 

Vancouver, W. T...3970 
Virginia Citv, M.T.2687 
Wheeling. W. Va.,.. 401 
Wilmington, Del... Ill 
Yankton, D. T 1449 



Foreign Distances, air-Line, from Washington, to 



Belize 


miles. 
..,1410 
...3840 
.,,4870 
.,.8580 
...3168 
...1330 


Honolulu 

Jeru.salem 

Lima 

Lisbon 

London 


MILES. 

....46.50 
....5490 
....3180 
....3180 
P.300 


Rome ,. 


MILES. 

4080 


Berlin 

Buenos Ayres.... 

Calcutta 

Callao 


San Domingo.... 

San Juan 

San Salvador.... 
Santiago, Chili.. 
Spanishtown, Ja 
St. Petersburg.. 
Sydney, Aus .... 

Tehauntepee 

Vera Cruz 


....1300 
...1380 
....1650 
4700 


Caracas 


Mexico 

JNicaragua 

Panama 


....1080 
....1740 
....1840 
..,,3480 


m..l290 


Cape Good Hope 
Cape Horn 


...7380 
...6450 
...sr.To 


....4290 
..,.9150 
1620 


Constantinople 4870 

Georgetown, Br. G.2230 


Pekin 


.,..7680 


1560 


Rio de Jaaeiro. 


.,.,4300 




4110 











XX 



general information. 
Differences of Time. 



Table showing the mean time at 39 places in the United ^States 
and Foreign Countries, u hen it is mean noon at V/asiattyton^ 
D.C., United States of America. 

* Signifies forenoon and f afternoon. Time computec roiu tlia ob- 
servatories of all places marked (o.) 



h. 

Albany, N.Y (o) f 

Alexandria, Egypt. f 7 

Astoria, Oregon * 8 

Augusta, Maine f 

Baltimore, Md I 

Berlin, Prussia (o) j 6 

Boston, Mass f 

Cambridge, Mass... (o) f 

Canton, China * 

Charleston, S. C * U 

Chicago, III * 11 

Cincinnati, Ohio.... * 11 
Detroit, Michigan.. * 11 
Greenwich, Eng.... (o) f 5 

Honolulu, S.I * 6 

Jeddo, Japan * 2 

Leavenworth, Kan. * 10 

Lima, Peru ♦ 11 

Liverpool, Eng (a) + 4 

London, Eng (o) t ^ 



m. 


s. 


13 


13 


7 


44 


52 


57 


23 


52 


1 


45 


1 


40 


23 


58 


23 


42 


41 


18 


48 


30 


17 


41 


30 


13 


36 


2 


8 


11 


30 


44 


28 


12 


49 


10 


69 


41 


56 


11 


2 


12 



Louisville, Ky 

Melhourne, Aiis'lia 

Mempliis, Tenn 

Mexico, Mex 

Milwaukee, Wis.... 
Mobile, Alabama.. 

Montreal. C. E 

ftloscow, Russia.... 
New Orleans, La... 

New York, N.Y , 

Panama, C. A . 

Paris, Franc. 

Philadelphia, Pa.... 

Rome, Italy - 

Salt Lake, Utah... 
San FraneiFCO, Ca: 

St. Louis, Bio 

Vienna, Austria... . 
Washington, D, C . 





h. 


TO. 


s. 


t'il 


26 


12 


* 2 


48 


5 


* 11 


7 


40 


* 10 


31 


60 


* 11 


16 


35 


* 11 


10 


6 


t 

(0) t 7 


14 





38 


28 


* 11 


8 


12 


t 


12 


12 


* 11 


50 


15 


(0) • 


■ 5 


17 


33 


(0) ■ 


• 


7 


34 


(0) 


• 5 


58 


6 


* 9 


39 


48 


* 8 


58 


25 


* 11 


7 


11 


(0)t 6 


13 


44 


(0) 












SECTION I. 

WASHINGTON AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 



WASHINGTON. 




iHE Seat of Government of the United States 
of America has been appropriately called *'the 
Virgin Capital." A territory under the exclusive 
jurisdiction of Congress had early received the atten- 
tion of tlie legislators of the new Kepublic; indeed, 
before the clamor of war had fairly ceased, or the 
royal standard of England had left its shores. The posses- 
sion of such a territory was an important featm-e in the de- 
bates upon the framing of the Constitution; and it was pre- 
cisely fortj'-eight daj^s after the last act of ratification, that 
the Federal City of the American Republic was by solemn en- 
actment of the young Congress of the Thirteen Free and Inde- 
pendent States located on the beautiful eastern shore of the 
broad Potomac. It might be added, that not only is Washing- 
ton the only virgin capital in the world, but its foundation was 
simultaneous with the inauguration of the permanent form of 
government of the nation. Of being synchronous it lacked less 
than two years. The idea and tin; execution were essentially 
American. It was founded as the Capital of the Republic. It 
sprang out of the virgin soil, and its growth and magnificence 
were to be measured by the progress and taste of the people 
who constituted the Government of which it was to be the 
political head and centre and the permanent residence. 

Among the capitals of the great nations of modern times, 
in this particular Washington stands alone. St. Petersburg, 
now the seat of the imperial residence of the Autocrat of all 
the Russias, rose out of the morasses of the Neva at the will 
of the great Peter. It was long what its founder called it, a 
look-out upon Europe, before the ancient capital of the Czars, 
in the fertile Moskva, left the sheltering walls of the Krem- 
lin for the banks of the Neva. Versailles, the queen of royal 
residences, sprang from a favorite hunting lodge of Louis 
XTTI. A monarch like his successor was atone capable of an 



Z GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. 

-exhibition of extravagance such as this. The genius of Le 
Brun and Le Notre, and the expenditure of two hundred 
(millions of dollars, did not make Versailles a capital. Its 
name and its associations are synonymous with the recldess- 
iiess of a luxurious and dissolute court. Rome, the city of 
•over twenty-six centuries, was government and capital , when 
JRomulus, with his handful of Latins on the western slope of 
the Palatine ; Tatius, with his Sabines on the Capitoline and 
the Quirinal ; and the Etruscans on the Cselian and Esquiiinc, 
gathered around the forum, and laid the foundation of that 
career of greatness and power, which justly earned the proud 
title of Mistress of the World. But republican Kome rose 
on tlie ruins of the earlier Idngdom of the Tarquiiis. Impe- 
rial Rome superseded the colossal fabric of the Republic of 
the Consuls, the Tribunes, and the Triumvirs. Pontifical 
Rome reared herself upon the crumbled throne of the Impe- 
rial Caesars. The Rome of to-day, the capital of United 
Italy, therefore, may well be said to be the mother, while 
Washington is the maiden, of capitals. 

Geographical Location. — Washington the Federal, or Capi- 
tal City of the United States of America, is situated on the 
left or eastern bank of the Potomac River, between the 
Anacostia, or Eastern Branch of the Potomac, and Rock 
Creek, 106 J m. (statute) above the mouth of the Potomac 
^iver, by ship channel, from abreast the red buoy off Point 
Lookout to Arsenal or Geenleaf's Point, and 185 J m. fi'om 
the buoy 1-^ ni. NE. of Cape Henry light, mouth of Chesa- 
peake Bay. The distance by air line to the mouth of the 
Potomac River is 69 m., and to the mouth of the Chesapeake 
Bay 143 m. The distance from the Capitol by air line to 
the sea-coast, just below Cape Henlopen, the nearest point, 
is 105 m. ; and to the Chesapeake Bay, available for vessels 
of war, Patuxent River, 53 m. ; Annapolis 38| m., and 
Herring Bay 39 m. 

The tatitadeof Washington (capitol) is 38° 52^ 20^^ north, long- 
itude 76° 55' 30^' .54 west of Greenwich, and 79° 15' 41'' .69 
west of Paris, both ascertained in 1821, under authority of 
Congress, by William Lambert of Virginia. 

The S2ie of the city and thelocationof the public reservations, squares, Cap- 
itol and President's House, were selected by President Washington. The only 
direct reference to the location of the public buildings within the limits of the 
territory then accepted, was contained in a proviso in the amendatory act of 
Congress, approved March 30, 1791, requiring their erection on the Maryland 
side of the Potomac. When the city was located, the northern limit of the 
United States was lat. /i^(P N. and the southern 31° N., placing Washington but 
23 min. or geographical miles south of the centre along the Atlantic Coast. 
^'he centre is now in the vicinity of Newberne, North Carolina, or 233 miles S. 
Another important consideration in those primitive days was the fact, that on 



ii m. 






If 



ml ''if liil 

ii I !^ :'>^ - 
,i4 ... 



1: 




4 AREA. 

no part of the coast, within the bounds of the country, was there accessible to 
sea-going vessels a port situated so far inland. 

The distances from the National Capitol to the remote points within the vast 
domain now under the jurisdiction of the republic, indicate the wonderful ex- 
tension of area attained by conquest and purchase during the first century of 
growth, viz To the north-eastern boundary on New Brunswick, 750 miles ; 
Rouse's Point, northern boundary, 598 miles; Cape Flattery, the extreme 
north-western boundary, on the Pacific Ocean, 4102 miles . Sitka, the capital 
of the Alaskan Possessions, 4535 miles; to San Francisco, western boundary, 
on the Pacific Ocean, 3155 miles; Key West, Florida, 1494 miles ; Brownsville, 
Texas, the Mexican frontier, 1946 miles. \_For table of distances front Wash- 
ington to the principal cities of the United States and the worlds see General 
litfortnation^ 

Area. — The plot of the city lies on the W. side of the 
tract, 64 sq. m., within the present borders of the District of 
Columbia, and is 14 m. in circumference. It covers 6,111 a., 
or a little over 9J sq. m. The avenues, streets, and spaces 
comprise 2,554 a. ; the Government reservations, as origi- 
nally laid out, 541 a., and squares 3,016 a. The greatest 
length is from W. to S. of E. ; or from Kock Creek, between 
I and K sts. W., to the bank of the Anacostia, at 24th st. E., 
on B St. S., 4.57 m. The earlier plot is extended to 31st 
St. E. ; but the 7 additional streets and squares are subject 
to tidal inundation, and are generally excluded from the 
later maps. The greatest breadth of the city is W. of N., 
from Grreenleaf Point, at the foot of the Arsenal Grounds, to 
Boundary, at 11 St. W., 3.78 m. The mean width from E. 
to W. is over 4 m., and length 2\ m. The city lies 4 m. 
along the Potomac and about 3J m. along the Anacostia. 

The following is a comparison of the geographical location, area and popula- 
tion of Washington with the leading capitals of Europe : Washington. — Lak. 
38° 52' 20" N. On Potomac Tliver, io6)^ m. from its mouth. Area gj^ sq. m., 
and 14 in. in circuit. Population, 1870, 109,199. London. — Lat. (St. Paul's), 
51° 30 48" N. On Thames River, 50 m. from its mouth. Area of old city i 
sq. m. With city and liberty of Westminster and 5 boroughs, 31,313 sq. m. 
Population, 1870, 3,215,000. Paris. — Lat. 48'' 50' 12" N. On the Seine River, 
no m. from its mouth. Area 14 sq. m. Population, 1871, 1,950,000. Bbrlin. 
— Lat. 52° 30' 16" N. On Spree River. Area 6,800 a., anci 10 m. in circuit. 
Population, 820,000. St, Petersburg. — Lat. 59° 56' N. On the Neva River, 
near its mouth. Area 6 m. in length and 5 in width. Population. 667,000. 
Vienna. — Lat. 48° 12' N. On the Wein River, near the Danube. Circuit 15 
m. Population, 1872, 640,000. Rome. — Lat 41° 54' 06" N. On the Tiber 
River, 1 7 m. from its mouth. Circuit 12 m. Population, 1872, 247,497. 

Government. — The municipal form of 1801, with amend- 
ments at various times, continued for. nearly three-quarters 
of a century, [n 1871 it was superseded by the territorial 
form, which was abolished by Act of Congress, June 20, 
1874, and a government of three commissioners substituted. 
{See Government, District of Columbia.) 

Finances. — (See District of Columbia.) 
Population {See District of Columbia). 
History. ( See page 235.) 



GEOGRAPHICAL SITUATION. 9 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. 

TJie Federal Territory, or District of Columbia, is situ- 
ated on the left or E. bank of the Potomac Hiver, at the 
confluence of the Anacostia or Eastern Branch 

Boundaries. —The District of Columbia comprises 64 
square miles. It lies entirely within the State of Maryland, 
and is bounded on the north by Montgomery county, on 
the east and south by Prince George county, and west by 
the Potomac River. 




Davie bUKNb CoriAi.,!'. -^c rii~i .ry. P.tt^e 23^,1 
'Y\i& Federal territory as originally located by President Washington, under 
authority of the Constitution of the United States, and national and stale legis- 
lation, formed a square of 10 miles (100 sq. m.). The bounds were proclaimed 
by the President March 30, 1791. On Friday, April 15, of the same year, at 
3 P. M., the municipal authorities of Alexandria, Virginia, repaired to the 
house in which the commissioners of Washington were residing, and after uni- 
ting with them in a glass of wine, to the sentiment •' May the stone which we 
are about to place in the ground remain an immovable monument (if the wis- 
dom and unanimity of North America," the company proceeded to Jones' 
Point, or the upper cape, which projects into the Potomac River on the Vir- 
tjinia side or right bank, at the confluence of Hunting Creek, then i mile E. of 
S. of the Court House of Alexandria, in the following ordei : Town Sergeant; 
Daniel Carroll, Commissioner, and the Mayor of Alexandria ; Andrew EUicott, 
Surveyor and the Recorder ; the Aldermen and Common Council, not Free 
Masons; strangers, Master of Lodge No. 22, F. A. M. of .Alexandria, with 
David Stewart, Commissioner, on his right, and James Muir, Pastor of that 
Episcopal parish on his left, followed by the rest of the fraternity and citizens. 



GOVERNMENT. 

Ellicott, " Geographer General," then ascertained the precise locatio» r 
Jones' Point, as defined by the President's proclamatioa, whereupon the M-^s- 
ter of the Lodge aud Dr. Stewart, aided by the craft, planted the initial or 
corner-stone of the Federal Territory, in accordance with the impressive rites 
of Masonry. The Rev. James Muir delivered an address. After partaking of 
refreshments, the procession returned to the city, and closed the ceremonies of 
the day with a banquet and appropriate toasts and speeches. From this initial 
stone Mr. Ellicott, during the ensuing year, laid down the lines ot boundary as 
directed by the President's proclamation. The first at an angle of 45° W. of 
N., a distance of 10 m., into the State of Virginia; the second 2X^0 starting at 
the initial point, at a right angle with the first, or N. E., across the Potomac, 
10 m., into the State of Maryland, and the remaining two lines from the ter- 
mini of the first two and at right angles with them, respectively, N. E. and 
N. W. , until they met each other in a point. The original Territory, it will be 
»een, stood diagonally, each angle facing one of the cardinal points of the com- 
pass. The M. pointy as originally laid out, is \ m, due W. of Silver Spring, 
Md. ; thd E. point 2^ m. S. of E. of Benning's Bridge, on the Anacostia ; the 
5. or initial point at the N", cape of Hunting Creek, called Jones' Point ; and 
the W. point near the source of Four-mile Run, in Virginia, T^^centre oj the 
original Territory is marked by a gray free-stone, about 100 yds. W, of the 
Washington Monument, and on a line almost due S, from the President's 
House, at a distance of about ^ m. 

The lines were marked by square mile stones, with appropriate inscriptions 
on the side facing the territory, "Jurisdiction of the United States;" 
facing the State, " Virginia," or " Maryland," according to location; facing 
the North ** 1793," the year in which planted ; and facing the South, the po- 
sition of the Magnetic Needle. Many of these stones are doubtless still standing, 
but lost sight of amid the accumulations of decayed vegetation. It has beeh 
wisely suggested that the Government should define the lines of the Fed-jral 
Territory of this now mighty Republic by tablets, columns and other marks, 
worthy and commemorative of its greatness. Shortly after the District was laid 
out this was seriously considered. It was proposed to build a great Fort at 
Jones' Point, on the site of the initial corner-stone of the Federal Territory, at 
the same time to constitute one of the defenses of the river approach to the 
Capital from the Sea. and to be called Fort Columbia. It was actually com- 
menced, but was soon afterwards abandoned. 

In 1846 all that portion of the District, consisting of about 36 sq. m., which 
lay on the W bank of the Potomac, in Virginia, was retroceded to that State, 
which reduced the area to 64 sq. m., its present extent. Since the retrocession, 
the short-sighted policy of that act has been demons rated. The question of re- 
storing the Territory to its first limits is being agitated. In the absence of ab- 
solute jurisdiction on both sides of the river, it is manifest that there must be 
interminable conflicts of interest and authority ; the more so as the Capital in- 
creases in population, wealth and magnificence. The schemes of improvement 
of the Potomac in front of Washington and Georgetown also demand tlie 
possession of the Virginia shore. 

Political Divisions. — The District is divided into the cities 
of Washington and Georgetown and the County of Wash- 
ington. 

Government.— The Congress of the United States, in Nov., 
1800, assembled for the first time in the City of Washing- 
ton. The jurisdiction of the United States over the Dis- 
trict vested on the first Monday of Dec, 3800. It was not, 
however, till Feb. 27, 1801, that Congress assumed direct and 
exclusive jurisdiction— all affairs of the District being first 
referred to a Committee for the District of Columbia for con- 
sideration and report. 



S GOVERNMENT HOW THE CITY WAS NAMED. 

The Act Feb. 21, 1871, applied to the D. C, the territorial form 
of government including a Governor and Council of 1 1 members 
appointed by the President and confirmed by the vSenate, an 
elective House of Delegates of 22 members, a Board of Public 
Works, Board of Health and Delegate in Congress. After three 
years experience by A. June 20, 1874, this plan was abolished and 
ap.ovisional government of three Commissioners was substituted. 
The A. June 11, 1878, provided a permanem form of government 
by authorizing the appointment by ihe President, with the con- 
sent of the Senate, of two persons actual residents for three 
years next before their appointment, who, with an officer of the 
Corps of Engineers, U. S. A,, of lineal rank above Captain, to 
be detailed for the ) urpose. should be Commissioners of the D. 
C. One of the Commissioners was 10 be chosen annually, by his 
colleagues. President of the Board. The details of municipal 
administation under the Commis ioneis are carried out by the 
Engineer's Department in charge of Surveys, Avenues and 
Streets, inspection of Buildings, Sewer construction, Water 
Supplv, Parking, Lamps and Insj ection of (.as and Meters; 
the Police Court; the Metropolitan Ptlice and the Fire and 
Health Departments. There are also, the Attorney of the D. C. 
and Assistants, Collector of Taxes, Assessor, Auditor, Coroner, 
Surveyor, Inspectors of Buildings, Boilers, Flour, Gas and 
Meters, Lumber, Wood and Plumbing, Superintendent of Public 
Schools, Harbor master, Sealer of v\eighis and Measures and 
officers of the various Hospitals, Asylums and Government Chari- 
table Institutions. 

How the City and Territory were Named. — On Thursday 
Sept. 8,1791, at a meeting at Georgetown, Thomas fefiferson, then 
Secretary of State,and James Madison, then a Representative from 
Va., met the Commissioners of the Federal City by previous 
arrangement, and evidently at the requesi: of Washington, to 
confer with them and give directions as to many preliminary 
measures. Mr. Jefferson submitted certain queries, each of which 
was discussed and £Cted upon by the Commissioners. One of these 
queries was, "Name of City and Territory? " It is more than pro- 
bable that Mr Jefferson suggested the names, as the answer 
appended says : "City of Washington and Territory of Columbia," 
and the next day, Sept. 9, the Commissioners wrote to Maj. 
L'Enfant, who was in Philadelphia with his plan, "we have 
agreed that the Federal District shall be called "The Territory 
OF Columbia," and the Federal Citv, "The City of Wash- 
ington." The name first api ears officially, with the sanction 
of President Washington, in his directions to the Commis- 
sioners to proceed with the sale of lots, and in the terms and 
conditions declared by him for improvements in the City of Wash- 



FINANCES STATISTICS. 9 

ing'fon, dated Oct I "J, 1791. The Legislature of Maryland, Dec. 
14, 1 791, recognized the names in "an Act concerning the Ter 
ritory of Columbia and the City of Washington." 

Finances. — The total value of taxable real and personal 
property i884-'5 was $106,207,577. 

The total Revenue of the District for the year ended June 30, 
1884. vi^as $4,130,403, and total expenditures $3,614,639, leaving 
a balance on hand July i, 1884, $515,764. The funded indebt- 
ness July i, 1884, was $21,422,000, and other debt $1,036,389, 
total $22,453,389. 

Statistics. — The last Census (1880) gives the following 
statistical information concerning the D. C. : 

Population. — Total area of settlement 65 sq. m. The District 
of Columbia was formed Mar, 30 1791 That portion lying in 
Virginia, was retroceded to that State in 1846, and therefore is not 
included. Population 1880, (Census Year) of the D. C. 177,624. 
The percentage of increase 1870 to 1880, was 34.8, i860 to 1870, 
75,4. The estimated population 1885, 200 000, and floating 
population during the Congressional season, 25 000 more.. 

By Civil Divisions. — Washington, 1880, 147,293, Males, 
68,306; Females 78,987; Native 133,051 ; Foreign 14,242; White 
98895; Colored 48,377; Chinese, Japanese and Indians 21. 
Estimated population of Washington, 1885, 180,000. George- 
town, or West Washington, 1880, 12,578. K en. a indcr of the Dis- 
trict, 1880, 17,753. 

By Ages.— School Age, 1880,5 to 17 years, M. 23,044, F. 
24-683; Military Age, 18 to 44 years, 35,411 ; Voting Age 21 
)ears and over, 48,873. 

By Areas, Dwellings and Families. — Land surface, 60 sq. 
m. ; Persons to a ^q. m., 2,960.40 ; Dwelhngs 28,687 ; Persons to a 
dwelling 6.19 ; Families 34,896 ; Persons to a family 5,09. VVash- 
rngton rank in populaiiou 14; Dwellings 24,107; Persons to a 
dwelling 6. II. Families29,6o3 ; Persons to a family 4 98. 

By Occupations — JNumber of persons Agricul ure, 1,464* 
Professional and Personal Service, Males 23,664, Females 
16,311 ; Trade and Transportaion, 9,848; Manufactures, Mech 
anical and Mining Lidustries, 15,337 ; Officials and Employes 
(Civil) of Government, 7,866. 

The value of Agricultural products, 1880, was $3,632,403. ; 
Manufactures, capital $5 552,^26, Products $11,882,316. 

Food Supplies. — The cereals and other crops of the ten:, perate 
zone are cultivated with success in the District of Columbia. 
Fruits and vegetables in great variety are also grown. The in- 



lO FIRST MEETING OF CONGRESS. 

habitants of the capital are abundantly sunplied from the garden 
products of the surrounding? country. The Potomac River and 
Chesapeake Bay also supply the markets of Washington, with 
Shad, Eass and other fine varieties of food fish, also Terrapin. 
Oysters and Crabs, of the best qualities. The favorite Canvas- 
back duck and other cho ce aquatic fowls, and game are taken in 
abundance. The markets of the capital rank with, if they do not 
exct 1 the finest in the country. 

Vital Statistics. — The District of Columbia is situated in one 
of the healthiest reigons in the U. S. Notwithstanding the large 
floating population constantly in the city, and theii irregular 
methods of living^ the average death-rate compares favorably 
with other sections. During the year ended Jtne 30, 1884, the 
total number of deaths was 4,814, viz.: whites, 1,322 males, 
1,254 females; colored, 1,081 m"les, 1,157 females, On the 
basis of the estimated population, Jan- i, 1884, 200,000; 130,700 
white, and 69,300 colored, th death-rate during the year was 
24,07 per 1000, or by race, 19.71 white, and 32.29 colored, per 
1000 inhabitants. The mean annual death-rate for 8 years, i876-'83 
inclusive, was : white, 18 83, colored, 35.62, total, 24.42 per 1000. 
The deaths by classes for the year, were : zymotic i 261 ; con- 
stitutional, 1,175; local, 1.757; developmental, 474; violence, 
147. The total per cent, to total mortality under 5 years of age, 
was 42 chiefly developmental and dianhoeal diseases, scarlet 
fever, tnd diseases of the brain, digestive organs and scrofula. 

First Meeting of Congress. — In pursance of a statute of the 
previous session, the second session of the Sixth Congress, as- 
sembled in the N. wing of the Capitol at the City of Washington 
in the Territory of Columbia, on Monday, Nov. 17, 1800. On 
Nov. 22, the House of Representatives joined the Senate in their 
chamber, when the President of the United States, John Adams, 
entered and addressed the two Houses. He said: "I congratulate 
the people of the United States on the assembling of Congress at 
the permanent seat of their Government, and on the prospect of 
a residence not to be changed. * * * it would be unlaecom- 
ing the Representatives of this Nation to assemble for the first 
time in this solemn temple, without looking up to the Supreme 
Ruler of the universe and imploring his blessing. May this Ter 
ritory be the residence of virtue' and happiness. In this City, may 
that piety and virtue, that wisdom and magnaminty, that constancy 
and self-government which adorned the great character whose 
name it bears, be forever held in veneration. Here, and through- 
out our country, may simple manners, pure morals and true 
religion, flourish forever.^ 

The Senate, on Nov. 25, in reply to the speech of the Presi- 



1 2 TOPOGRAPH^ GEOLOGY. 

DENT, said: ''Impressed with the important truth that the hearts 
of rulers and people are in the hands of the Almighty, the Senate 
of the U. S. most cordially join in your invocation for appropriate 
blessings upon the Government and people of this Union. We 
meet you, sir, and the other branch of ihe national legislature, 
in the city which is honored by the name of our late hero and 
sage, the illustrious Washington, with sensations and emotions 
which exceed our power of description." 

The House of Representatives, on Nov. 26, in their address 
to the President, said: "The final establishment of the Seat of 
National Government, which has now taken pkce within the Dis- 
trict of Columbia, is an event of no small importance in the political 
transactions of our Country, and Jwe cordially unite our wishes 
with yours, that this Territory may be the residence of happiness 
and virtue; nor can we, on this occasion, omit to express a hope 
that the spirit, which animated the great founder of this City, 
may descend to future generations, and that the wisdom, magna- 
nimity and steadiness which marked the events of his pubic life 
may be imitated in all succeeding ages " 

Topography. — The District of Columbia presents a pleasing 
variety of landscape. On the shores of the Potomac, towards 
the NW., the outlying spurs of the Blue Eidge range of the 
Appalachian chain approach the city, and form the wild and 
romantic scenery of rugged rocky hills and deep valleys along 
the Potomac at the LitUe and Great Falls. The remainder 
of the District consists of sweciDingand graceful undulations. 
The Potomac, from the NW., and the Anacostia, from the 
NE., unite their currents about the centre of the original 
bounds of the District, from which point the main river Sows 
in a southerly direction, until it passes the line. A number 
of smaller streams, including Rock and Tiber Creeks, which 
water all parts of the District, lind their outlets into the Po- 
tomac or Anacostia. 

Geology. — The soil of the District bordering the Potomac 
is alluvial, formed by the rich deposits of the river, brought 
down from the mountains. The elevated lands consist almost 
exclusively of yellow clay, interspersed with sand and gravel. 
Occasionally a mixture of loam and clay is met with. Rock 
Creek divides the primitive from the alluvial soil. Above 
Rock Creek the shores of the Potomac are lined with primi- 
tive roclis. Shortly after leaving the District the red sand- 
stone appears. In some parts the stone frequently contains 
leaves of trees and ligneous fragments. A species of gneiss, 
composed of feldspar, quartz, and mica, is also abundant, and 
constitutes the underlying rock of the entire District. 



ORNITHOLOGY. 13 

Mineralogy. — The mineralogy of the District is thus stated 
by Mr. Robinson, in his Catalogue : 

Flint, on the shores of the Eastern Branch of the Poto- 
mac, near tlie Navy Yard, in small nodules. 

HOBNESTONE, containing organic remains. 

Agatized Wood, woodstone, three miles north fi'om Wash- 
ington, sometimes invested with minute crystals of quartz, 
fine specimens, and abundant. 

Schorl, in Georgetown, in gneiss. 

Lignite and Pyritical Fossil Wood, found abund- 
antly in digging wells. 

Iron Ore, in the vicinity of the woodstone locality, in de- 
tached masses, on the sm-face. Organic remains in sandstone 
abundant. 

Botany. — A list of the plants indigenous to the District of 
Columbia, prepared by J. A. Brereton, in 1822, from the ma- 
terial collected under the auspices of the Washington Botan- 
ical Society, and entitled Florida Columbiana^ presents 22 
classes and 288 varieties, following the Linnaean classification. 
Of the more familiar varieties found are the oak, (several va- 
rieties,) button-wood, red maple, sassafras, aldei-, mountain 
ash, linden, catalpa, locust, chestnut, tulip, liorehound, pen- 
nyroyal, dogwood, blue-eyed grass, violet, wild honeysuckle, 
fox grape, Indian tobacco, mullien, wild sweet potato, night- 
shade, chickweed, touch-me-not, dog's bane, spiderwort, elder, 
sumac, calamus, superb lily, hellebore, free primrose, ground 
laurel, laurel, whortleberry, wild indigo, wild pink, cockle, 
poke, strawberry, dewberry, blackberry, sweet brier, May 
apple, columbine, ground ivy, motherwort, catnip, trumpet 
creeper, water-cress, vdld pepper-gTass, passion flower, crow- 
foot geranium, snakeroot, pea vine, wild potato vine, dande- 
lion, thistle, wild lettuce, sunflower, ladies' slipper, sedge, 
nettle, bm-dock, hog weed, Indian turnip, cucumber. 

Zoology. — The animals native to the region embraced within 
and contiguous to tlie District of Columbia in primitive times 
resorted to this vicinity in large numbers to feed upon the rich 
pastures found upon the aUuvial banks of the Potomac. 
Among these were several varieties of deer. There were also 
panther, black bear, wild cat, wolves, red and gray foxes, 
rabbits, beaver, raccoon, opossum, squirrels, (several varieties,) 
field mice. Tlie larger species are exterminated. The num- 
ber of species of all "kinds is stated at 42. 

Ornithology. — The feathered khigdom is well represent- 
ed. Jeffferson, in his Notes on Vu'ginia, speaks of 100 vari- 
etes of birds, most of which doubtless were found in the 



14 CLIMATE. 

District. The wild tnrlvey was found in great numbers. 
The canvas-back duck, wliich in early days resorted to the 
vicinity of Analostan Island, is yet met with in the estu- 
aries of the streams below the city; also the vrild goose, 
swan, mallard, blue-winged teal, widgeon, and other spe- 
cies. In the swamps are found snipe, rail, blackbirds, 
and reed-birds. The country generally abounds in quail. 
The hunting of feathered game is restricted by law. The 
autumn months generally constitute the season. The car- 
dinal grosbeak, mocking-bird, sparrow, linnet, yellow-bird, 
thrush, sand-piper, Idng-fisher, and heron 'are also met with. 
The number of species of all kinds is stated at 236. 

Ichtbyology — The Potomac, within the District, is stocked 
with fish in great numbers, some of which are of the finest 
varieties. Those best known are the sturgeon, (weight from 
40 to 150 lbs.,) rock fish, (from 1 to 7^ lbs.,) shad, bass, gar, 
eel, (three varieties,) carp, herring, pike, perch, (four varie- 
ties,) catfish, mullet, (three varieties,) and smelt. The shad 
of the Potomac are of excellent quality. In the season they 
are very abundant, and may be seen caught on the Virginia 
shore opposite the city ; also large quantities of herring are 
caught below the city. The laws of Maryland, as early as 
1768, provided for the protection of the fish. Subsequent 
acts placed a heavy penalty upon the destruction of young 
fish by weirs and dams, and to prevent beating with cords or 
poles at certain seasons of the year. A species of shark also 
ascends to the city. 

Herpetology. — There are about 50 species of reptiles. Of 
turtles and lizards there are several varieties. There are 
about 20 species of serpents, including the rattle, copperhead, 
black, garter, water, green snakes, and vipers. 

Olimate. — The climate of the District of Columbia is gen- 
erally salubrious, though subject to sudden changes, particu- 
larly in spring The means for a series of years, compiled 
at the office of the Chief Signal Officer (Reports for the 
benefit of commerce), indicate these general conditions of the 
atmosphere: Mean temperature, minimum, 7° to 9° Fah- 
renheit, maximum, 95° to 102°.5 ; mean Barometer, min., 
29.08 to 29.35 inches, max., 30.63 to 30.82 ; Rain Fall, max., 
6.8 inches to 7.8 in.; Prevailing winds, northwest. The 
hottest months are July and August, and the coldest De- 
cember and February. Sleighing is rare. In summer storms, 
attended with excessive lightning and thunder, are frequent. 
In the winter of 1874-5 navigation on the Potomac was 
entirely suspended for several weeks on account of the ice. 




^S-LMl 






jmiim:.^^l_ii 



SECTION II. 

DESCRIPTION OF THE CITY, 




AVEN^UES, SQUAKES, STATUES, &C. 

I HERE are three points within the city from which 
'the finest ^dews of Washington may be obtained : 
1st. The Dome of the Capitol. 2d. The West Por- 
tico of the Capitol, reached through the central hall 
of the Library of the United States. 3d. The higher 
of the north central towers of the Smithsonian In- 
stitution. Outside of the city the best points are from the 
tower of the Government Hospital for the Insane, beyond 
the Anacostia, and the portico of Arlington House, beyond 
the Potomac. The stranger should not fail to take advan- 
tage of at least one of these opportunities, and aU would 
arnply repay him. With the aid of this HAND-BOOK and 
map he will thus be able to form a perfect idea of the city 
and the location of the principal public buildings. 

Topography. — ^The site of Washington covers an undulat- 
ing tract, which lies along the left or E. bank of the Potomac 
River, between Rock Creek and the Anacostia. From the 
rugged elevations on the banks of Rock Creek a crescent- 
shaped ridge crosses the northern portions of the city. About 
two thirds its length it suddenly parts, to allow the fitful cur- 
rent of the Tiber through. From that point it rises and 
spreads out into the expansive plateau of Capitol Hill, which 
overlooks the Anacostia on the E. Within this encircling 
ridge the surface falls away in terraces and gentle slopes to 
the banks of the Potomac. In different parts of the city are 
eminences which afford commanding situations for the public 
buildings. 

From the lower falls of the Potomac at Georgetown, where 
the outlying spurs of the Blue Ridge Mountains give the face 
of nature a somewhat rugged appearance, a chain of low, 
wooded hills range on the N"., and continuing on the op- 
posite shores of the Anacostia and Potomac, merge again in 
the hills on the Virginia side. These give the appearance of 
a vast ampitheatre,"in the centre of which stands the city. 

The mean altitude of the city is about 40 ft. above the or- 
15 




Afl. ri(m,m 
Mercian Hill. ^^-^ 



liSiftv^ 




^ 'MLKiLljJ.J!j^v, I 

■ ■ ilJjL^j^O&r^.. ;^ 

' Jd:pUQ'U[Z]S3i^. 
r^i!rPJEJiU?J[£jv-}S^] 






RKFi:nENCE8. 

Squares.— 15. Judiciary; 23. Lafayette; 34. Mount Vernon; 
35. Lincoln; 36. Stanton; 37. lolger; 40. Garfield; 41. 

; 42. ; 43- ; Si- Trank- 

lin; 55. Iowa Circle. Other Parks Squares, and Cir- 
cles are named after the liuiUlings or Statuesin them. 
Places of Amusement. —58. Grand Opera 
.(. Mouse; 59. National Theatre; 60. Ford's 

0"'" (ipera House. 

. 11*' Railroad Stations.— 61. liall.andl'oio- 

.1 m,nc R. K.; O2. lialt. and Ohio K R. 



13^^. 

'-^a^ 

-jijj^jaJLJZj: ^ 

iG£^gjJJiJjii£JiU:jj:j , 
i..!v. .,,1 j.^^r I .ni/>)'u^ i^ j^Li ij 'ip 



Government Uu 



3. I>ciwtln\cnl; 
5. Of\v«r. (.. 



cs and PUccs.- 

l-xjcutive MmisiLii; 
nl.s of Slaio, 4 Of the Treaiun 
- , „ Of (he Navy, 7. Of the Interior yv^- 

nnd rmcnt OlVue; S. ticncrnl IVsi-Office; d.^-CT 
Uqwlmcnt of Justice .tnd (.■.mrlofcl, 
AKricullure; II. Naval Olvsciv.iiory; i.- . 
iuRlou Hai rucks; 13 Navy Vard; |.|. M 
Kicks; i\. Itaimiio urdwi; ^7. Kaval II, 
Government Printing Office; 39. Medicai > 
10. Sifiunl Oniiv; 31. Winder Building and Oui.i.-i.w 
Museum; 44. Kish Oouiinission Building; 45. Nationiu 
Museuni: 47. I'. S. Kish Ponds; jS, Bureau of lin-ra, 
i'"iS,'" '""""S: 4<>- Pension Building; 50. Money ' 

_ ->5. L 
17. waslungton Asylum; iS. Central .Market. 

GMllenes, <Sc.— 10. Smithsonian 1 
Gallery of Art; Jc>. Congressional Cemetery. 
Monuments.-.o. Washington Obelisk; 39. Nnv.1 Monmnenl \\ 
I. \\ashn.gton; aa. Washington; aj. J.ickson \ V 
Kawlms: 55 Lmancii«tion: 30. Gr«eii^; jS Mu>l 
uv: 5--. McPhcrson; 53. Farragut ; J^. Thomas ; U 
. I'upont. ^ •\^\ 




Stilt 

shall; 4( 
56. I \ith. 



lie 




16 PLAN OF THE CITY. 

dinary low tide in the Potomac opposite. 'Vha more impor- 
tant elevations, accordino; to levels talven by Brev. Lieut. Co* . 
George W. Hugiies, Corps of Topographical Engineers, in 
1850, are as follows : 

Foundation of St. John's Church, N"E. corner of 16th 
and H sts. NW., opposite Lafayette Square and the Presi- 
dent's House, 65.50 ft. 

Corner of I and 19th sts. NW., 82.10 ft. 

East base of Capitol, 89.50 ft. 

Base of Naval Observatory, 96.20 ft. 

Corner of N and 11th sts. NW., (highest point in the city,) 
103.70 ft. 

The soil upon which the city is built is generally a yellow- 
ish clay, mixed with gravel. In digging wells near New Jer- 
sey av. trees Avell preserved were found at a depth of from 6 
to 48 ft. At one point a stratum of black mud was discov- 
ered at a depth of 18 ft. 

The Tiber — so named more than a century before Wash- 
ington was founded, in the belief, it is said, that some day 
upon its banks would rise a capital greater than Rome, like 
its historic and larger namesake — runs through the city, di- 
\^ding it into two parts. Its fountain streams rise in the 
hills to the N., and enter the city in several branches, the 
principal one in the vicinity of 1st st. W. ; it then pursues a 
SE. and S. course, till it crosses Massachusetts av., when it 
winds off to the SW. around the NW. base of Capitol Hill 
and across Pennsylvania av. and the Botanical Garden. 
Originally its course continued along the Mall and emptied 
into the Potomac immediately W. of the Washington Mon- 
ument. Subsequently it was diverted into the Washington 
Canal at 3d st. W., which followed the line of B st. N. along 
the N. borders of the Mall. The filling of the canal led to 
further changes. The Tiber and its tributaries have since 
been utilized by diverting them into the sewerage system of 
the central and southern portions of the city; hence, although 
the stream traverses one of the most populous sections, its 
course is not traceable, the current flowing beneath heavy 
brick arches, upon which buildings have been erected and 
avenues, streets, and parks laid out. In primitive days the 
banks of the Tiber were lined with forests, and shad and her- 
ring in their season were caught in its waters, under the very 
shadow of the hill where the Capitol now stands. 

Plan of the City. — ^The plan of Washington was prepared 
in 1791 by Peter Charles L'Enfant, a French engineer of 
noticeable genius but eccentric habits, who had served in the 
Continental Army with sufficient distinction to attract the 



■ill 
dill II 






^^ 



■ 



li u 



I 



mm: 



18 PROPOSED EMBELLISHMENTS. 

attention of Washington » In the work he was greatly as- 
sisted by the advice of Thomas Jefferson, who, when diplo- 
matic representative of the United States at foreign courts, 
had, witli an intuitive vision of the wants of the future, stud- 
ied the plans of the cities of Europe visited by him, and was 
competent and prepared, with the aid of plans and his per- 
sonal linowledge of their details, to contribute an invahiable 
amount of information on this important subject. The plan 
adopted combines the artistic beauty and grace of Versailles 
and the practical advantages of Babylon, revived by William 
Penn in Pliiladelphia. In the conception of the plan, the 
predominating object was to secure posiKons for the different 
public edifices ; also squares and areas of different shapes, 
which would afford fine prospects. The avenues were in- 
tended to connect the most distant parts with certain princi- 
pal central points, to insure a reciprocity of views. Lines N. 
and S., intersected by others running E. and W., were to 
divide the city into streets and squares. These lines were to 
be so combined as to intersect at certain given points another 
set of divergent avenues, so as to form on the open spaces. 
Every grand transverse avenue and every principal divergent 
one, such an from the Capitol to the President's House, was 
to be 160 ft. wide, laid out with 10 ft. sidewalks and 30 ft. of 
gravel- walk, planted with trees on either side, and 80 ft. of 
carriageway in the' centre. The other avenues and streets 
leading to public buildings or markets were to be 130 ft. wide. 
and others 110 and 90 ft/. 

The site for the Capitoi was determined upon as the initial point in execu- 
tion of this plan. That important question having been decided, Mr. Eilicott 
drew a true meridian line by celestial observation, which passed throi'gh the 
area intended for the Capitol. This he crossed by another, a due E. and W. 
line, which passed through the same area. These lines were accurately 
measured, and formed the basis on which the whole plan was executed. All 
these lines were run by a transit instrument, and the acute angles were deter- 
mined by actual measurement, leaving nothing to the uncertainty of the com- 
pass. The avenues and streets were then laid down. 

The ideas of the projectors not only contemplaf-f. a Federal City capable ot 
great expansion, but also took in its creditable embeliiskvient. Although the 
want of means and the general apathy of the government and people allowed 
these suggestions to pass unrecognized, it is interesting to observe that the dis- 
graceful and neglected condition of the Capital of the United States for nearly 
three quarters of a century was not owing to any imperfections in the original 
plan. Directly S. of the President's House, in the triangular space between 
the Mall and the Potomac and the mouth of the Tiber, where the unfinished 
Obelisk to the memory of Washington stands, was located the site for the 
Equestrian Statue of Washington, voted by the Continental Congress in 1783. 
On E. Capitol st., between nth and 13th sts. E. , and about the centre of the 
high plateau between the Capitol and the Anacostia, where four avenues inter- 
sect, was laid out a spacious square, in which was to be erected an Historic 
Column, to be used also as a Mile or Itinerary Column, from which it was in- 
tended to calculate the distances to all places within the United States and on 
the continent. This column would have answered the purpose of the cele- 
brated Niphon-Bass or Bridge of Japan, at Yedo. This bridge is considered 



GRliSlN OF THE PLAN. 19 

AS the centre of the empire. From it the Tocaido extends to all parts of th« 
empire, and geographical distances are computed. At the foot of 8th st, W., 
immediately on the banks of the Potomac, and commanding a fine view ot 
the widening reach of the river below, was to be erected a Naval Itinerary 
Column, to celebrate the first rise of the Navy, and "to stand a ready monu- 
ment to consecrate its progress and achievements." The crest of the knoll on 
which the Patent Office now stands was set apart for a National Church and 
Mausoleum, designed for the use of the Government on occasions of public 
prayer, thanksgivings, state funerals and orations, and for any other purpose 
national in character The edifice was to be assigned to the special use of no 
particular sect or denomination, but to be equally open to all. It was also to 
be the place for such monumental or other tributes of a grateful country voted 
by the then late Continental Congress for those heroes who fell in the cause of 
liberty, and for such others as might be decreed a place there by the voice of 
the nation. A\so, Jive grand Fountains ^Ncre to be erected at different promi- 
nent points; one S. of the Capitol, in the large irregular space formea by the 
intersection of Virginia and North and South Carolina avs,; one on Maryland 
av., at the intersection of F and iithsts. N. E-; one at the intersection of Penn- 
sylvrinia and Louisiana avs., near the present site of the Centre Market ; one 
on New York av., at the intersection of I St., between nth and 12th sts., N. W.; 
and one on the N. side of Pennsylvania av. , at the intersection of I St., between 
; 2oth and 21st sts. N. W. It was proposed to supply these fountains from the 
I springs and streams within the limits of the city. Between the Capitol and 
the Botanical Garden it was intended to construct a Grand Cascade^ to be fed 
from the Tiber. Between Pennsylvania and Maryland avs., from 3d st. W., a 
space of 1,200 ft. was laid down as the main approach to the " Federal House" 
or Capitol, and by which it was intended to reach the upper square of the 
"Federal House." The Mall w2lS to form a grand avenue, 400 ft. wide and 
about I m. in length, bordered with gardens, to lead to the Equestrian Statue 
of Washington, or where the Monument now stands, and to connect the " Con- 
gress Garden with the President's Park." On E. Capitol St., which was to be 
i6d ft. wide to the proposed bridge across the Anacostia, the pavement on 
each side was to pass under archways, with shops. On the S of the Presi- 
dent's Park was to be a well-improved " Field, 1,800 ft. wide and % m. long," 
part of the " Walk" from the President's House. This spacious reservation 
was designed for the more elegant houses and gardens of the city, to be used 
by diplomatic or other foreign representatives and prominent officials of the 
United States. Fifteen squares were to be distributed among the States in 
the Union, for them to embellish within a limited time, by the erection of 
some appropriate statue, or other mark, to the memory of the heroes of the 
Revolution, " to inspire the young," and designed to "leave a grand idea of 
patriotic interest." Lots were to be assigned for the use of churches, colleges 
and other institutions. All dwellings or other structures were to be built in 
accordance with certain regulations, so as to preserve uniformity. 

Origin of the Plan. — The resemblance between the plans 
of L'Enfant for Washington and L'Xotre for Versailles will 
be apparent to any one who has visited the capital of the 
Western Republic and the magnificent royal residence of 
the kings of France. The grand avenues de Sceaux and de 
St. Cl9ud, diverging from the Cour Royale, are reproduced 
in Pennsylvania and Maryland avs., radiating from the E. 
front of the Capitol ; E. Capitol st. is the Avenue de Paris; 
the Boulevard du Roi and the AU^e du Potager in N. and 
S. Capitol sts.; and the Allies de la Reine, de Noisy, des 
Paons, and de la Reine, which diverge from the E. extrem- 
ity of the Grand Canal, near the Basin d'Apollon, with the 



omispion of Allee de la Keiiie to the SAV., respectively, in 
Connecticut, Fennsylvaiiia, and New York avs. W. of the 
Pi'csident's House. The niissin«^ avenue m the plan of 
Washinotoii. the continuation of Vermont av., wonld have 
completed the resemblance, but for the interference of na- 
ture : the Potomac and the mouth of the Tiber standing 
in the way of the extension SW. of the President's House. 
Other striking- features of tlie design of Versailles are observ- 
able. Washington, however, having in view the practical as 
well as the beautiful, might be said to combine the plans of 
two cities. The streets running at right angles have a regard 
for the facilities of business. While over these, with an eye 
to beautiful prospects and the advantageous display of the 
centres of attraction, at long ranges are laid the broad ave- 
nues, carrefours^ allees, and lawns of the imperial retreat at 
Versailles. 

Though the city was originally laid out on a scale adequate to the necessities, 
of a metropolis of more than half a million inhabitants, and with the proper 
regard for the adornment of the Capital of a great people in the future, the 
crude ideas entertained by subsequent statesmen respecting the political status 
of the Federal Territory and city were adverse to any expenditure other than 
to establish there a simple place of meeting for the representatives of the States 
—a sort of central agency, where the President and Executive officers might be 
stationed, and where Congress might come once a year or oftener, as the exi- 
gencies of the times required, to transact the business intrusted to them by the 
Constitution — mainly to pass laws, appropriate money, levy taxes, declare 
war, ratify treaties, and confirm nominations. This class, then in the ascend- 
ency, found it impossible, or were unwilling, to see anything national in the 
foundation of a Federal Capital, and consequently opposed every measure 
looking beyond the mere provision of accommodations for the public offices. 
To build a capital in every sense jyinbolic and worthy of the Union was en- 
tirely foreign to their interpretation of the meaning of that portion of the Con- 
stitution which gave Congress the pow^r to accept and exercise exclusive juris- 
diction over a Territory to be solely devoted to the uses of the nation for the 
purposes of the Government. These notions, it would seem, were a revival of 
a practice in Germany centuries ago. On the left bank of the Rhine, imme- 
diately below the ancient village of Rhense, on the very brink of the stream, 
and apart from the habitations of men, is still to be seen the famous thoug?i 
rude rostrum or temple known as the Koenigsstuhl, It consists of stone seats, 
within a small circular wall, and overhead entirely open to the air. Here, in 
the earlier ages, the German electors assembled to deliberate upon the affairs 
of the empire, to perform acts for the common good, to make treaties, and to 
nominate or depose the emperors. Washington, by the class alluded to, was 
viewed in the light of the Koenigsstuhl of the United States. More mature 
thought, however, at last brought the people to look upon their capital as the 
political metropolis of the United States. This enlightened view is recent, 
dating no further back than 1861. It was not till 1870 that the march of much- 
needed improvement commenced. With this new state of affairs the Capital is 
annually becoming more worthy of the greatness of the Republic of over fifty 
rnillion^; o' people. 

Beservations. — In the plan of the city a liberal allowance 
of space was selected and marked out in the most desirable 
localities for the sites of public buildings, parks, and for other 
purpose's of the Government. These grounds were called res- 



RESERVATiU.N.'a. 



21 



ervations, and were numbered from 1 to 17, with an 
aggregate area of 541 acres, 1 rood, 29 perches, fo: which 
the government paid $66.66f per acre, total $36,099, from 
money arising out of the sale of city lots granted by the 




mill's statue, of WASHINGTON. I See page 39.) 

original proprietors. These reservations were selected by 
President Washington for pubhc purposes. Those still pos- 
sessed by the Government— several having been sold or 
granted away since, leaving 513 acres — are clesignated on 
the maps by their original numbers, but are popularly 



22 RKSERVATIONS. 

called after the principal buildings situated on them, or 
from the uses to which assigned, as follows: 

No. I. The President's Grounds extend from H st. N, to B st. N., and 
from 15th to 17th sts. W., with the exception of a square in the NE. and 
NW. angles. On these grounds are the President's House, conservatories, 
andstabies, flanked on the E. by the Treasury Department, and on the W. 
by the State, War. and Navy Departments. Total area, 83 a. i r. 22 p. 

No. 2. The Capitol Grounds and Mall extend from ist st. E. to the pro- 
longation of 15th St. W., and between B sts. N. and S. On these grounds 
are the Capitol, Botanical Garden, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Ag- 
ricultural Department. Total originally, 227 a. o r. 8 p. Under authority 
of Congress, in 1872, squares No. 687 and 688, in the NE. and SE. angles of 
the E. Park, were purchased and thrown into the grounds. The deficient 
portion of the Mall was disposed of in 1822. See Reservations Nos. 10, 11 
and 12. 

No. 3. The Park extends from the W. line of the Mall, on 15th st. W., to 
the banks of the Potomac, and is separated from the President's Grounds by 
B St., N., formerly the line of the liber Creek and the Washington Canal. 
The old channel of the Tiber entered the Potomac on the NW. border of 
this reservation. These grounds are occupied by the Washington Monu- 
ment and the Government Nurseries. Total area, 29 a. 3 r. 9 p. 

No. 4. The University Square extends from E. st. N. to the banks of the 
Potomac, and between 23d and 25th sts. W. On these grounds is the Naval 
Observatory. Total area, 21 a. o r. 18 p. 

No. 5. The Arsenal Grounds, foot of ^%, st. W., originally included 
the point of land at the confluence of the Anacostia and Potomac, from 
Greenleaf's Point to T st. S., and between the mouth of James Creek and 
the line of 3d st. W. to the Potomac. Total area, 28 a. 2 r. 31 p. This 
reservation in 1857 was extended by the purchase of the land between the 
line of the canal into James Creek and W. to the Potomac and N. to P st. S. 

No. 6. The West Market Square, on the Potomac, at the foot of 20th' and 
2ist St. W. covered with water. 

No. 7. The Centre Market Square, between the point of intersection of 
Pennsylvania and Louisiana avs. and B st. N., and from 7th to 9th sts. W. 
Total area, 2 a. 3 r. 29 p. This reservation years ago was granted by the 
President to the corporation for the erection of a market. In i860 it was 
granted to a private corporation by which the present handsome structure 
was erected, now the principal market in the city. 

No. 8. The National Church Square, between 7th and 9th sts. W. and F. 
and G. sts. N., occupied by the Patent Office. Axea 4 a. o r. 22 p. 

No. 9. Judiciary Square, between the intersection of Indiana and Louisiana 
avs. and G. st. N., and 4th and 5th sts. W., occupied by the City Hall. 
Area, 19 a. i r. 27 p. In 1819 a portion of this reservation was granted by 
Congress to the corporation for a Town House or City Hall. 

No. 10 Reservation North of Pennsylvania av. between 3d and ^% sts. W 
In 1822, granted by Congress to the corporation, to be sold in lots, to pay for 
the removal of the canal, which then ran along the S. side of Pennsylvania 
av., to the centre of the Mall, from 3d to 6th sts. W., and to fill up the low 
grounds in that vicinity. Total area, 6 a. o r. 31 p. 

No. II. Reservation between B and C sts. N. and 2d and 3d sts. W. Total 
area, 3 a. 2 r. 34 p. Disposed of same as reservation No. 10. 

No. 12. Reservation North of Pennsylvania av., between 2d and 3d sts, W. 
Total area, i a. i r. 4 p. Disposed of same as reservations Nos. 10 and 11. 

No. 13. Hospital Square, from the Anacostia to 19th st. E. and between B 
and G sts. S. Total area, 77 a. o r. 26 p. On this square stands the Maga- 
zine, Alms House, and District Jail. 

No. 14. The Navy Yard is bounded by M st. S. and the Anacostia, and the 
continuation of 6th and 9th sts. E. Total area, 12 a. 3 r. 15 p. On these 
grounds are the buildings, docks, ship-houses, and works of the Washington 
Navy Yard. 

Nos. 15 and 16. Eastern M\rket House Squares, near the Navy Yard. 
Thesft reservations were granted by Congress to the municipal corporation 



Avenues and Streets.— The 21 avenues and 107 streets 
of the Capital have an aggregate length of 2/9 m.— aven- 
ues 65., streets 21 4 m.— and are of greater width than those 
of anv other city in the world. Originally there were 13 
avs named after the States in the Union when the city 
was laid out. Others on the first plan, but undesignated, 
were named after States subsequently admitted, though 
not in the order of their admission. The avenues radiate 
trom principal centres or connect difi"erent parts of the 
city With the alleys and open spaces at intersections 
the highways cover 2554 a., or nearly one-half of the area 
of the city. For location of avenues and streets see map of the 
city facing page 14 ; for location, width and course of avenues 
and streets see ''Table" page 24. For description of avenues 
seepage26. __ ^__ ^ 




^)^^s^L^AMA AVE^UL (.Jarvcs.j 

, The ratio of street areas to areas of three of the principal cities in the 
United States and the same number in Europe is : Paris, France, 25.8 per cent-.; 
Berlin, Prussia, 26.4 per cent. ; Boston, United States, 26.7 per cent. ; Phila- 
delphia, United States, 29.8, per cent, ; New York, United States, 35.3 pei 
cent. ; Vienna, Austria, 35.8 percent.; Washington, United States, 41.8 pei 
cent. The carriage ways of the avenues and streets are well laid, with a vari- 
ety of pavements amounting to over i6q m., embracing Belgian, granite, cob- 
ble-stone, Neufchatel, concrete, wood, Macadam and graveled. This length 
is computed on the basis of an assumed width of 32 ft. The improved styles of 
pavements have been laid on principal thoroughfares of business and pleasure, 
and on the avenues and streets occupied by the better class of residences. 
The cobble-stnnc, in streets less traveled, mostly south of Pennsylvania av. 
The Macadam is but little used within the city, owing to the dust, but is ex- 
tensively employed on the highways traversing the rural districts within the 
Territory. 

Under the old corporation, with the exception of a few spasmodic attempts, 
as the necessities of an increased population became urgent, no efforts were 



'26 AVENUES. 

made to improve the avenues, streets, and spaces. Under act of Con^Uib 
April 6, 1870, one-half of the width of many of the avenues and streeu *as 
set apart for parking, leaving a roadv^ay of not less than 35 ft. width in the 
centre, or two such road-ways on each side of the park, should that be piuced 
in the centre. Pennsylvania and Indiana avs. and 4}/^ st. W., between the 
City Hall and Pennsylvania ave., were excluded from this arrangement. On 
July 8, of the same year, Congress authorized the paving of Pennsylvania 
av. at the Government expense. Under the Board of Public Works, a sys- 
tem of grades was adopted, to which all avenues and streets were made to 
conform. 

Description of Avenues. — The broad thorou^nfares are 
among the principal attractions of the National Capital, and 
the finest possessed by any city in the world. A drive upon 
them, especially of an evening, when tlironged with hand- 
some equipages, atlbrds a truly enjoyable recreation. 

Pennsylvania av. is not only the principal, but also one of 
the two longest in the city. It is, however, twice interrupted 
in its continuity — by the President's House and Capitol. Its 
width varies from 130 to IGOft. It Is about 4| m. in length, 
from Georgetown and Roclc Creek to the Anacostia, and is the 
main line of communication across the citj'. Along its route 
are the Washington Circle, the War and Treasimi Departments. 
and Presidenfs House. From 17th to 15th sts. the avenue pre- 
sents a particularly tine prospect, passing between the Nort} 
Park of the Presidenfs Grounds, in front of which is a side- 
walk 34^- ft. wide, and Lafayette Square. From loth st. W. tc 
the Capitol it traverses the entire length of the finest business 
quarter and the fashionable drive. It thence winds up and 
around the hill surmounted by the Capitol, and continues to 
its terminus on the banks of the Anacostia. At the foot of 
8th St. E., leaving this avenue, is the Navy Yard. 

Pennsylvania av. was also the earliest used. In 1800 it was opened and rudely 
drained from the Capitol to Georgetown, and yet it was nothing better than a 
marsh. During the administration of Jefferson, from the Capitol to the Presi- 
dent's House it was laid out in three roadways. A row of Lombardy poplars 
was planted between the centre or main roadway and that on either side. A 
flag-stone footwalk also ran from the Capitol to Georgetown. In 1825 the side- 
walk on the S. side was paved with stone from the Capitol to the Navy Depart- 
ment. In 1832 the trees were cut down, the curbs extended, and a drained, 
macadamized roadway, 45 ft. wide in the centre, laid out. The " centre strip/' 
however, was not entirely completed till 1849, ^'^'^ then was shaded with elms, 
maples, and " trees of heaven." In 1842 it was lighted with lamps from the 
Capitol to the President's House ; subsequently it was paved with cobble- 
stones, and so remained till 1870, when it was improved in a manner commen- 
surate with its prominence as a thoroughfare. 

Massachusetts Avenue is the longest unbroken in the 
city, being over 4 J m. It begins at the N\V. Boundary; is 
160 ft. wide, and extends to the Anacostia SE., intersecting 
New Hampsiiire and Connecticut avs., forming tlie P-street 
Circle; Vermont av., forming the Circle of Victory (Thomas 
Statue); New York av., at Mount Vernon Place; New Jer- 
sey and Delaware avs.; Maryland av. at the Statue of Greene; 
Tennessee, North Carolina, and Kentucky avs., at Lincoln 
Square {Statue of Emancipation,) and thence to the Hospuai 
Grou'nds on the Anacostia. 



A/^oCUil-XlUiX Oi! AVEil^UlLa. 



This avenue gradually rises to an elevation considerably above the surround- 
ing heights, from which it descends in easy graduation to the middle of the 
broad intermediate valley, and rises again on the east. On its route are the 
finest circles and squares, and many of the most costly residences. It is well 
paved, and bordered with a choice variety of trees. 





Simmons Naval Statue, or Monument of Pbach. 
The naval monument, designated by Congress the Monutnent of Peace, de- 
signed by Admiral Porter, U. S. N., and erected {xora. subscriptions started by 
him, 1865, in his fleet, on the fall of Fort Fisher, " In memory o^ the officers, 
seamen and marines of the United States navy who fell in defense of the union 
and liberty of their country, i86i-'6^." From officers, midshipmen and men, 
^,000, from prominent gentlemen, (including Secretary Borie, $i,ooo,) $|.,ooo, 
increased oy investment in U. S. securities. Contracted for, 1871, with Frank- 
Hn Simmons, sculptor, of Maine, for $21,000, Ravacckione Carrara marble, 
height, 44 ft., erected without ceremonies, 1S77. The surmounting figures 
represent History recording the woes narrated by America ; ivest 0/ plinth,, 
Victory crowns young Neptune and Mars; east. Peace offering the olive branch 
and surrounded by the products of the peaceful arts. Latter paid for, ^2,000, 
out of appropriation, J20, 000, by Congress, 1876, for foundation, platform, steps 
and circular basin, designed by Edward Clark, architect of the Capitol. Cas- 
cades flow from the 'nouths of bronze dolphins in the sub-base, and four artis- 
tic lamp posts stand on the rim of the basin. The monument was admired in 
Rome as one of the finest works of the kind ever sent to America. It was 
transported from Leghorn on board the U. S. ship Supply, and landed at the 
Navy Yard, Washington. Inscription on the tablet, held by History, " They 
died that their country might live.'* The monument stands on Pennsylvania 
Av.,at the western base of Capitol Hill. It is 40ft. high; the figures are 6ft. 



28 



UEtjUKiPTlO.N OF AVEMJi^is. 



Vermont and Connecticut Avenues, 130 ft. wide, ex- 
tending respectively NE. and NW. from the N. side of La- 
fayette Square, opposite the Executive Mansion. 

On the former are many beautiful private residences, and the Statues of 
McPherson and Thomas, and on the latter the elegant edifice of the Eaglisn 
Legation and the property of that government. 

New York Avenue, ] 30 ft. wide, begins at th© Potomac 
river, S W. of the Department of State, and runs across the 
city in a NE. direction. 

Its continuity is interrupted by the park of the Executive Mansion. From 
the Treasury Department NE. it is parked in the centre, and has a vista of 
ehns. At the intersection of Massachusetts av, is ?. beautiful bronse fountain. 

Maryland Avenue; 160 fu wide, beginning at the Wash- 
ington terminus of Tlie Long Bridge across the Potomac, 
extends JSE. across the city to the Baltimore Turnpike. 

From the former to the Capitol ij_is mostly a railroad thoroughfare. 




_ Ball's Statuk of Emancipation (See page 38). 
The remaining avenues are more or less improved, but as yet present no spe- 
cial attractions. AVw Jersey and Delaware «z/j.- cross each other at the Cap. 
itol, and present fine sweeps of vision from that structure. Rhode Island and 
Neiv Ha7npshir& avs. in the NW. portion of the city, are rapidly filling up 
with private residences of a striking variety of architectural design and ele- 
gance. For names, widths and courses of aveniies see ''' Table'"' page 24 
For location and interesting points see map of the city in this Handbook. 



DESCRIPTION OF AVENUES. 



1^9 



Executive Avenue, laid out in 1871, begins at Pennsylvania av., E. and W, 
of the Executive Mansion, and passes the Treasrcry and State, War, and 
Navy Departments respectively The N. entrances consist of six massive 
granite gate-posts, upon which are swung immense iron gates. A granite 
staircase, 20 ft. wide, and a \>G.2M.'i\'iv\ fountain stand W. of the Treasury De- 

?artment. Walks lead from the Departments to the Executive Mansion, 
'assing S., the two wings of the av. form a semi-circle, uniting opposite theS. 
Portico of the Executive Mansion, and proceed in a broad single line due S. 
to B St. N., where the av. enters the I'ark or Monujnent Grounds, and joins 
the beautiful Drive, commenced in 1872, connecting the President's and Capi» 
tol Grounds. 






RoBisso's Statue of McPherson. (See page 36.) 

The Drive. — Leaving the S. terminus of Executive av., 
the Drive, consisting of a gravel roadway of 35 ft., planted 
on either side with trees, sweeps along the banks of the 
Potomac, affording a superb view of the expansive bosom 
of the river N. till lost behind the hill crowned by the 
Naval Observatory, and S. as far as the Long Bridge. 

On the left is a beautiful lake, covering 3 a., fed by a spring on its SE. border 
and a fountain in the centre. On the right are ponds for the propagation of 
fresh-water fish, under the auspices of the United States Fish Commission. 
About 100 yds. W. of the Washington Monument, is a gray freestone, a little 
over 2 ft. in height which marks the centre of the District of Columbia, as laid 
out in i79i-'92. The Drive now winds round the Monument. On the S. is 
the Government Propagating Garden ; also the stately edifice of the Bureau of 
Engraving and Printing. The Drive then enters the Agricultural Grounds, 
a beautiful reservation. At this point also commences the Mall. Prior to i8i6 
this attractive portion of the public grounds was covered with majestic oaks. 



60 



ftiXKiilETb. 



at i2th 5t. W., the drive now enters the quiet retreat of t^e Smithsonian InstU 
tution Armory Square, so named from the former Armory of the District 
Militia located on the S. portion, to 6th st. W., where it will cross the track of 
the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad, on an ornamental iron bridge, with a 
40 ft. roadway, and 12 ft. sidewalk on either side, constructed by that company 
in compliance with the act of Congress, and terminates opposite the W. en 
trance to the Botanical Garden. It is proposed to extend the drive across the 
garden, so as to complete the connection with the Capitol Grounds without 
leaving the line of the Mall, thus carrying out the original plan of the city, 
which contemplated " a walk and drive between the President's House and 
the Capitol." The Drive is nearly 2 m. in length. 




BRONZB STATUE OF GEN. GREEN (SEE PAGE 38.) 

Streets. — All streets in the city are designated from the 
Capitol, North, and South Capitol Streets, intersecting the 
Capitol from North to South, and East Capitol Street and 
its prolongation on the the Mall from east to west, crossing 
at right angles, constituting the base lines and dividing the 
city into four sections. 

The numbered streets range in parallel lines east and west of the Capitol and 
lettered north and south, as A st. N. or S. , or ist st. E. or W., according to the 
situation with respect to the Capitol, as A and ist sts., Northeast, Southeast, 
Northwest, Southwest, for every locality, it being necessary to designate the 
section. The principal public buildings, parks, business and fashionable parts 
of the city are in the Northwestern quarter. There are one hundred numbers 
In each block, beginning at the Capitol and extending to the four points of the 
compass {For additionalitiformation, see page 24, oMd map of the citf.'^ 



RENOMhCLATURE. 



31 



The city in addition to its magnificent avenues possesses 
many attractive streets. Prominent amongst tiiese are F, 
I, K. and M, sts. N., and 4^, 11, 14, and 15 sts. W., upon 
which are some of the most beautiful private residences. 
The fine thoroughfare extending East of the Capitol, 
known as East Capitol Street, was originally designed to 
be the chief stnjet of the city ; North and South Capitol 
Streets running from the Capitol, lie on the first meridian 
of longitude for the United States, as laid down, in 1791, 
by Ellicott ; 7th Street W. is devoted exclusively to trade. 
(For location of streets see Map; for width see "Table," page 24.) 




FOUR AND ONE-HALF STREET. 



(Jarvis.) 



Renomenclature. — It is proposed to abolish the present system of no- 
menclature of the streets with duplicate letters and numbers. This plan is not 
only extremely confusing to strangers, but embarrassing and a source of great 
inconvenience to residents. The proposed renomenclature contemplates for 
streets running N. and S. a system of consecutive numbers, beginning at 28th 
St. W,, which would be ist St., and terminating at 31st st. E., which would be 
6oth St., the additional street necessary to make up that aggregate being 4^ 
St. W. or 2ist St. First Sts, W. and E. at the Capitol would be 29th and 30th 
sts. respectively. N. and S. Capitol sts. would retain their present names. 
It is also proposed to adopt for the streets running E. and W. a nomenclature 
which would require no alteration in the letters, selecting for each the name 
of some citizen eminent in the service of the Government or in private life, the 
initial letter to correspond with the letter which now designates the street. 
For instance : 

Streets North of the . Capitol — Adams, Benton, Clay or Clinton, 
Douglas. Everett, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton. Jefferson, Kent, Lincoln, 
Marshall, Nelson, Otis, Peabody, Quincy, Randolph, Story, Tompkins, Up- 
shur, Van Buren, and Webster. 

Streets South of the Capital— Anderson, Bainbridge, Chaun- 



>ey, Decatur, Ellsworth, Farragut, Grant, Harrison, Jackson, Knox, Law- 
rence, Marion, Nash or Nicholson, Overton, Perry, Quitman, Rodgers, Scott, 
Taylor, Union, Van Ness and Warren. 

Parking. — The street parks and sidewalks of the city are 
generally planted with trees possessing the merits of state- 
liness and symmetry of growth, expansive foliage, early 
spring verdure, and variety of colors in autumn. 

The varieties used are the silver ma:ple, American linden, European syca- 
more maple, American elm, tulip tree, sugar maple, sweet gum, red maple, 
Norway maple, negundo, American ash, buttonwood, oaks, and European 
ash and linden. The trees are usually planted 40 feet apart and properly cared 
for. Certain varieties are confined to certain streets. The supply is kept tip 
from the reserve Nursery on the banks of the Anacostia, S. of the Alms House, 
where there is constantly a stock of upwards of 20,000 plants from 2 to 9 feet in 
height. This parking adds vastly to the adornment of the capital. 

Quarters- — The arrangement of the streets with respect 
to the Capitol divides the city into 4 sections. 

The Northwest Quarter constitutes the finest portions of the capital, embrac- 
ing the President's House, all the Departments and Foreign Legations, the 
principal business establishments and fashionable residences. The Southwest 
Quarter, formeily known as " the Island," from its separation from the rest of 
tne city by the Washington Canal, now filled, is generally the quarter of per- 
sons of moderate means. In it are also the wharves. The Northeast Quarter 
is the same as theSW. The Southeast Quarter, with a small portion of the 
NE., is known as " Capitol Hill," from the Capitol, which stands on the W. 
brov/. It was inteiided, originally, ro make this the finest portion of the city 




The Tiber Arch (outlet of Great Sewer). 

Sewers.— The cities of Washington and Georgetown, for 
ewerage and drainage, are divided into 5 sections. 

I. The Georgetown and Slash Run District. Draining that city, the N. 
W. portions of Washington, Slash Run, and small streams N. W. of the city. 
The 7nazn sewer, y^ m. long, lo ft. span, with 7 miles of brick and 30 miles of 
Vipe tributary sewers, disembogues into Rock Creek. 



SEWEKS. 



33 



'2. The Boundqrjf Dz'sirzci, inlercepUng the storm waters of the rural dis- 
tricts N. of the city, and hitherto finding outlet through the over-fiooded Tiber 
sewer, and also draining the contiguous parts of the N. section of the city, be- 
tween Boundary N. and 14 streets. The main sewer consists of ag ft. conduit 
2 m. long, emptying into the Anacostia, and 5 m. brick and 15 m. pipe tribu- 
tary sewers. 

3. The Tider District, draining the entire city east of 6lh st. W., about 
3,000 acres, embraces 16 m. brick and 30 m. pipe sewers. This is one of the 
largest sewers in the world, named after the Tiber Creek, which finds outlet 

hrough it, and might be called the C'oaca Maxima of Washington, as that was 




ward's statue of THOMAS. (See page 39;. 

the great dram of Rome. The main sewer consists of a brick arch 24 to 30 ft 
span, 15 ft. high, and over 2 m. long. It extends through the basin of the val 
ley, and winds around the base of Capitol Hill under the Botanical Garden 
and thence under the Tiber arch (see engraving page 32), into James Creek, 
and thence into the Anacostia east of the arsenal. 

4. The B Street Area, draining all the central and most populous parts of 
the city N. and S. of the Mall, and between the foot of Capitol Hill and 17th 
street, and embraces 14 m. of brick and 18 m. of pipe sewers. The main sewei 
I m. long and 12 ft. in diameter, follows the line of the old canal on B street, 
and discharges into the Potomac at the foot of 17th street. 

5. Ihe Potomac and An.icostia Areas , emhr<<c\n% the portions of the city 
contiguous to the two rivers, and finding outlet directly into them through 4 m. 
brick and 20 m. pipe sewers. See -map of the citvfor locality Drainage Area*. 

The sewerag-e syttein of W ishingc^n, the most complete in the world, is 



S4 



SQUARES. 



constantly extended to meet the necessities, 
health and convenience of the city. It now 
embraces 48 m. of brick and 113 m. of pipe 
sewers. 

The sewerage of the city foimerly drained 
into the canal, which crossed the most beauti- 
ful and populous portions of the city from the 
Anacostia to the Potomac S. of the President's 
Grounds, passing along B si. N., and separat- 
ing the beautiful grounds on the Mall from the 
rest of the city. This open mass of filth and 
disease was filled in 1872. 

Squares. — in addition to the 
grounds attached to the public 
buildings, and which will be de- 
scribed in that connection, there 
are a number of beautiful squares 
in various parts of the city. 

Lafayette Square, 7 acres N. of 
the President's House and be- 
tween 15^ and 16^ sts. W. The 
broad ave. extending to the N. is 
16 St., terminating at Meridian Hill. 
From the President's Grounds on 
the S. it is separated by a broad 
ave. This square is beautifully 
laid out in graveled walks with 
seats, and adorned with trees and 
shrubbery of rare varieties. A 
watchman's lodge partly for the 
public stands on the N. side. Two 
Wir,:.bronz6 vanes of antique design, 7 ft. 
high, weighing 1,300 lbs. each, cast 
"■%*XrT°Ts«p"g"36.r''t the Washington Navy Yard 
1873, mounted on granite pedes- 
tals, stand on the E. and W. sides of the square. In the 
centre of this square is Clark Mills's equestrian statue of 
General Andrew Jackson, originally contracted for by the 
Jackson Monument Association, composed of the friends 
and admirers of the subject, who subscribed $12,000 for 
the purpose. 

In 1848, Congress granted to the Association the brass guns and mortars 
captured by the General at Pensacola. In 1850 an additional number 
of brass guns and national trophies, captured in battle, sufficient to complete the 
the statue were donated by Congress, and an appropriation made in 185a 
for the marble pedestal. In 1853 $20,000 were appropriated for the comple- 
tion of the statue, and Congress assumed possession of it. It is colossal^ 
weighs 15 tons, total cost, |50,ooo. The tail and the hind parts of the 
horse are weighted and the figure poised without the aid of rods, as in the 

feat statues of Peter the Great at St. Petersburg, and George III. at London. 
his was the first application of this principle. The statue was unveilea amid 
imposing ceremonies Jan, 8, 1853, "^he anniversary of the General's victory over 
the British at New Orleans. Stephen A. Doiigla.s, orator. 




SQUARES. 



35 




l llliilili!i iiilli!!iliili!ii||^!!l!lil!!!!;il!!!illll||l!i!l|l!^^^ 




JACKSO^i EQUESTIIlAiN SXAlUJi. 



McPherson Square. — On Vermont av., between I and 
K sts. N. and 15th st. W., IJ acres, well laid out with 
f^alks and shrubbery, and adorned with composite iron 
k^ases and d.rinking fountains. In the centre is the bronze 



/ 

36 SQUARES.^ 

9tatue ofMaj. Gm. James B.McPherson, killed near Atlanta, 
Ga., at the head of the Army of the Tennessee, July 22, 1864, 
erected by the Society of the Army of the Tennessee, Louis 
T. Robisso, of Ohio, sculptor Robert Wood & Co., of Phila- 
delphia, founders, heroic 14 feet high, horse 12 feet long, 
metal light bronze, being cannon appropriated by Con- 
gress, weight, 7,000 lbs. Cost, $23,500. 

u J}^^ ^i.^."^!^' '^ represented in the lull uniform of his rank, with slouch hat, 
holding his field glasses in his right hand, and surveying the field of battle 
Unveiled Oct. i8, 1876, amid an imposing military pageant, Gen. John A. 
Logan, orator. The superb pedestal, in five massive and appropriately decor- 
ated blocks of Virginia granite, cost ^^25,000, voted by Congress in 1875 
It was proposed to place the remains of the General beneath the statue, 
and a vault was constructed for the purpose, but the removal, though approved 
by his family, owing to objections of the people of his native place, was not con- 
summated. . 

Farragut Square. — On Connecticut av., between I & K 
Sts. N., and 17th st. W., 1^ a., beautifully laid out. 

Here has been erected the colossal bronze Stati<^ of 
David Glasgow Farragut, First Admiral of the U. S. Navy, 
ordered by Congress, 1872 ; executed by Mrs. Vinnie 
Ream Hoxie, Washington, 1880. 

It was cast 1880, at the U. S. Navy Yard, Washington, D. C, from the meta 
of the bronze propeller of the flag-ship Ha.-tford, in which the admiral achieved 
his most signal victories. Height of figure, 10 ft.; weight, 1500 lbs. ; cost, 
^20,000. 

The Ac^miral is represented in full uniform, his foot resting on a block, hold- 
ins in his hand a spy-glass, and earnestly watching the movements of the enemy. 
■ " 'v:!s unveiled April 25, 1881, amid an imposing naval dis- 
play. Horace Maynard, Tenn.,and D. W. Voorhees, Ind., orators. 

The Peaestal of Maine granite is 20 ft. high, cost $2,000, and rustic base, 
$5,000. Under the pedest«»} was placed a copper hox, giving an account of the 
services of the Admiral, history of the statue, an Army and Navy Register, and 
model of the propeller of his flagship, the Hartford. The inortar carriages 
were cast out of the metal of the propeller. 

Scott Square. — At the intersection of Massachusetts and 
Rhode Island avs., and 16th st., due N. of President'^ 
House, 1 acre. Here stands the bronze Statue of Brevet 
Lieutenant General Winfield Scott ordered by Congress, 1867, 
erected 1874, H. K. Brown, of N. Y., sculptor, Robert Wood 
& Co., of Philadelphia, founders. Cast out of cannon 
trophies of the valor of the General in Mexico, and 
donated by Congress. Total height, 15 ft; figure, 10 ft.; 
weight, 12,000 lbs. ; cost, $20,000. 

[See engraving, page 23.] 

The General is represented in the full uniform of his rank, mounted on a 
war charger, at rest, and surveying the field of battle. The pedesial, of Cape 
Ann granite, stands 14 ft. high, is in five large blocks, total height with statue, 
29 ft. T\ie platform is 26 ft. long, 13 ft. wide, and 2 ft. thick, and weighs 119 
tons, 1,197 lbs. ; sub-base^ 20 ft. X 10 ft. X i ft.; 84 tons ; base, 17 ft. X 7 ft X 
3 ft., 41 tons ; die, 15 ft. X 5 ft. X 5 ft-, 38 tons ; and cap, 17 ft. X 7 ft- X 3 ft-, 
37 tons 1,500 lbs. Total weight of pedestal, 320 tons 697 lbs. When quarried, 
weighed 400 tons 621 lbs. These are the largest stones ever successfully quar- 
ried in this country, and among the largest in the world. Great diflBciuty was 
experienced in their removal to the seacoast, whence they were transported to 
the National Capital by sea. 



SQUARES. 37 

FrankIjIN Square, between 13th and 14th sts. W. and 
I and K sts. N., comprises 4 a., and was purchased by the 
Government hi 1829 in order to secure control of a fine spring, 
the waters of wliich, as early as 1832, were convej^ed in pipes 
to the President's House and Executive offices. This water 
is still used for drinking purposes at the President's House, 
it being considered better than that from the Potomac. The 
spring lies N. of the fountain, beneath two iron and stone 
covers, built in the arch constructed over the spring. It was 
not until 1851 that this square was laid out. In the centre is 
a small fountain, with a basin 30 ft. in diameter, and a keep- 
er's lodge, with other conveniences, near by. There are also 
several drinking fountains. The square is planted with a 
pleasing variety of ornamental trees and shrubs. 

Judiciary Square, on the original plan of t.Jie city, was 
designated reservation No. 9, and'was set apart for the then 
contemplated buildings for the accommodation of the judicial 
branch of the Government. It comprises 19^ a., and ex- 
tends on the S. from the intersection of Louisiana and Indi- 
ana avs., at the head of 4^ st. W. to G st. N., and between 
4th and 5th sts. W. The S. portion, fronting on 4^ st., is 
occupied by the City Hall. 

On the E. side was erected the immense temporary wooden structure for the 
call given in honor of the Second Inauguration of President Grant, March 4, 
1873. On the W. side, during the rebellion, i86i-'65, wooden buildings were 
erected for soldiers' hospitals. This square is one of the largest and most at- 
tractive in the city. 

Rawlins Square, on New York av., SW. of the Depart- 
ment of State, 1} a., is beautifully laid out, with walks, 
trees, evergreens, and shrubbery, and rustic fountains. 

In 1874 was erected there the heroic bronze statue 0/ Brigadier General 
yohn A. Raivlins, of Illinois, Adjutant General and chief of staff to General 
Grant, i864-'65, and Secretary of War, 1869, ordered by Congress in 1872, exe- 
cuted by J. Bailey, of Pennsylvania, 1873, cast by Robert Wood & Co., of 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, cost $10,000, 8 ft. in height, and weighs 1,400 lbs. 
The Virginia granite pedestal, 12 ft. high, cost ;^2,50o. 

Mount Vernon Place, at the intersection of Massachu- 
setts and New York avs. and K and 8th sts. NW., till 1871, 
was occupied on the E. half by the Northern Market. It 
is beautifully laid out and planted. In the centre is a 
raised circular space, containing a bronze fountain. 

Triangles. — At the intersection of the avenues and streets 
are small spaces designated Triangular Reservations. Many 
of these E. and W. of the Capitol are planted with trees and 
shrubs, and are further beautitied witli small fountains. 

Birds. — A flock of imported sparrows was set at liberty in the public grounds in 
1871, for the destruction of insects. Each year new cages are placed in the trees 
for the accommodation of their increased numbers. These useful birds are fed reg- 
ularly everv morning during the winter in Franklin, Lafayette, and other squares. 



38 CIRCLES. 

Green Square, at the intersection of Massachusetts and 
Maryland avs., NE. of the Capitol. 3§ a., beautifully laid 
out. Here stands the colossal equestrian bronze statue of Ma- 
jor General Nathaniel Greene, of the Revolutionary Army, H. 
K. Brown, sculptor. Erected 1877, under act of Congress, 
June 23, 1874, in conformity with a resolution of Congress, 
August 8, 1786, Robert Wood & Co., Philadelphia, found- 
ers. Original appropriation, $40,000. October, 1875, $10- 
000 additional to include pedestal. 

The General is in the uniform of an officer of the Continental army. He 
points forward, and is in the act of giving orders to an aid on the field of bat- 
tle. The animal is about to step off; the near hind foot rests on a cannon ball, 
and preserves the equilibrium. Total height, 13J4 ft,, length, 14 ft., weight 
6000 lbs., cost of casting Jic.ooo. The pedestal, composed of three massive 
blocks of New England granite, is 20 ft. high, making the total height of the 
statue 33^^ ft. 

Lincoln Square. — On East Capitol St., 1 m. E. of the 
Capitol, 6 J acres beautifully laid out. Here stands the 
bronze group entitled Emancipation, representing Abraham 
Lincoln, the 16th President of the U. S., standing by a 
monolith, and holding in his right hand the proclamation 
of freedom. A slave kneeling at his feet, with manacles 
broken, is about to rise. On his left is the trunk of a tree 
with lash and manacles strewn about. Thomas Ball, of 

, sculptor, 1874; Ferd. Miller, jun., Munich, 1875, foun- 

deT. 12 ft. high ; weight 3,000 lbs., cost, $17,000. 

Erected by the Western Sanitary Commission of St. Louis, Mo., out of the 
funds contributed solely by emancipated citizens of the United States, declared 
free by the proclamation January i, 1863. The first contribution, ;^5.oo, was 
made by Charlotte Scott, afieedwoman of Virginia, being her first earnings in 
freedom, and consecrated by her suggestion and request on the day she heard 
of President Lincoln's death, to build a monument to his memory. Unveiled 
April 14, 1876, the anniversary of his assassination, in the presence of the Presi- 
dent of the U. S., cabinet and foreign ministers, and a vast concourse of colored 
and white citizens. Frederick Douglass, orator. The pedestal of Virginia gran- 
ite, 10 ft. high, cost, ^3,000, was voted by Congress. 

It was in this square, in the proposed original embellishment of the Capital, that 
the Historic Column was to be built, to serve also as a mile or itinerary column, 
from which all geographical distances in the United States were to be calculated. 

bT ANTON Place lies NE. of the Capitol, at the intersec. 
tioii of Maryland and Massachusetts avs., and comprises 3^ a. 

A short distances, of tlie Capitol, at tlie conver<^eiice of 
New Jersey, South Carolina, and North Carolina avs., is a 
large tract, originally laid out as Reservation No. 17. It 
contains 23^ a., or, on the first maps, 21 a., and was set off 
as the site for the Town House or City Hall, but has never 
since been considei'ed in that connection. It is still with- 
out improvement, though the subject has been called to the 
attention of Congress. 

There are other sciuares in the SE. parts of the city vacant 
and unimproved. 



% 



CIBCLBS. 89 

Circles. — ^The spaces at the intersections of the more im- 
portant avenues form what are termed circles. 

Washington Cibcle, 23d st. W., at the intersection of 
Pennsylvania and New 
Hampshire avs., contains 
the Equestrian Statue of 
General George Washington, 
by Clark Mills, ordered by 
Congre&s in 1853. cost $50- 
000, cast out of guns do- 
nated by Congress. 

it represents Washington at the 
crisis of the Battle of Princeton, the 
horse shrinking before the storm of 
shot and the din of conflict, while the 
rider preserves that equanimity of 
bearing native to his great character. 

The Thomas Circle (^Circle of 
Victory'), at the intersection of 
Massachusetts and Vermont avs., 
and 14th St. NW. Here is the bronze 
statue 0/ Maj. Gen. George h. 
ThotKas, contracted for by the 
Society of the Army of the Cumber- 
land, 1874, with J. Q. A. Ward, 
sculptor, for $40,000, Bureau Broth- 
ers & Heaton, of Philadelphia, 
founders, $10,000, from new ma- 
terials, heroic height, 16 ft., weight 
7500 lbs. 

Unveiled November 19, 1879, amid 
a grand military and civic pageant, 
Hon. Stanley Matthews, orator. 
The Hymn 0/ Victory, words by 
Herbert A. Presion, music by J. 
Max Mueller, was executed by 100 
male voices and accompaniment of 
the U. S. Marine Band, 60 pieces, a 
full drum corps, and battery of Ar- 
tillery. 

Bailey's Statue of Rawlins (Page 37). 




The General is represented in the field dress of a Major General of the U. S. 
Army, suddenly reining his horse to observe the field of battle. The statue 
faces south, the line of vision being directed towards the General's native hills 
of Virginia. Pedestal erected by Congress, $25,000, Virginia granite, is of 
beautiful design, elliptical shape, 16 ft. high, with bronze tablets, representing 
the badge of the Society of the Army of the Cumberland. Four bronze lamp 
posts designed by General Thomas L. Casey, Engineer Public Buildings and 
Grounds, cast by Robert Wood & Co., Philadelphia, 1877, cost $1,000 each, 12 
ft. high, with three-sided base and three ornamental shafts with surmounting 
centre and three bracketed lanterns surrounding it. On this site a salute of 
800 guns was fired in commemoiaiion of the fall of Petersburg and Richmond, 
April 3, 1865, and a few days later 500 guns in honor of the surrender of Gen* 
eral Lee's army 



40 



DUPONT STATUE. 



DupoNT Circle, 
formed by the inter- 
section of Massachu- 
setts, Connecticut 
and New Hampshire 
Avenues, and 19th 
and P Sts., n. w., 
containing 2 a., 14,- 
667 sq. ft., is in one of 
the most attractive 
parts of the n. w. 
quarter of the City. 
Here stands the 
heroic bronze Statue 
of Rear Admiral 
Samuel Francis 
DupoNT, U. S. N., 
by Launt Thompson, 
cast by the Henry- 
Bonnard Bronze Co., 
N. v., and erected by 
Cong, under A. of 
i882-'4. Weight of 
Statue, 1,400 lbs., 
height, 9'8"; cost, 
$14,000; cost of 
Pedestal, Maryland 
Granite, 10' high, 
$3,200, total, $17,- 
|200. It represents 
i the Admiral with his 
; left foot forward, and 
: earnestly gazing at 
an object in the dis- 
tance, having already 
surveyed it with his 
marine glasses which 
he holds in his hand and which he is in the act of dropping. The 
erection of this Statue grew out of a petition prepared by Commo- 
dore Clark H. Wells, signed by Admirals Porter and Rowan, 
Secretary of the Navy, Thompson, Gen. Sherman, and others, and 
submitted to the Senate. Admiral Dupont distinguished himself 
in the War with Mexico, i846-'8., and in the Rebellion, i88i-'5.. 
The unveiling exercises, Dec. 20, 1884, consisted of Prayer by 
Rev. W. A Leonard, St. John's P £. Church. The unveiling of 
the Statue. Address by Senator Thomas F. Bayard, of Del. A Rear 
Admiral's salute of 13 guns. 

Office Engineer. — Congress annually appropriates, for salaries. 




THOMPSON'S DUPONT. 



BOTANICAL GARDEN. 41 

the improvement and care of the public grounds not otherwise specially assigned} 
repairs and refurnishing the President's House, green-houses, and for fuel ; light- 
ing the Capitol, President's House, and public grounds; and construction and re- 
pairs of all bridges on the Potomac and Anacostia, and repairing and extension of 
Government water-pipes. 

Propagating Garden. — The Government Propagating Gar- 
den, originally on Missouri av., between 3cl and 4J sts. W., 
is beautifully situated on the banl^ of the Potomac, S. of the 
Washington Monument, The garden covers 8 a. T\\q forc- 
ing houses are supplied with aijparatus for the propagation 
and growth of plants of the rarest species and varieties. In 
1872, from the old garden, upwards of 20,000 papers of flower 
seeds were collected and cured. These, with surplus plants, 
sometimes numbering upwards of 10,000, consisting of roses, 
chrysanthemums, verbenas, geraniums, begonias, and other 
hot-house annuals and shrubs propagated at these gardens 
were distributed to members of Congress, and otiiers notified 
by circular letter that such stock w^as ready. A Nursery is 
connected with the garden, in which trees and slu-ubs are 
grown for the supply of the public parks. 



1 ^-^. 





Copyright, 1874: LeB. II. Keim. 

BOTAXICAL GAEDEN AND GREEN- H0C8K. 

Botanical Garden.— Ope.^ daily, 9 rr. w. to 6 p. w.— This 
instructive place of public resort is situated at the foot of Capi- 
tol Hill, extending from 1st to 3d sts. W., and between Penn- 
sylvania and Maryland avs. There are two main entrances for 
pedestrians, one opposite the main central W. gate of the Cap- 
itol Park and the other on 3d St., opposite the E. end of the 
Drive. Each entrance consists of four marble and brick gate 
piers, with u'on gates. No wheeled vehicles are permitted in 
the garden. The avenues diverging fi'om the W. Capitol Park 
give the garden a wedge-shape, the narrower end facing the 
W, front of the Capitol. It comprises 10 a., surrounded by 



42 BOTANICAL GARDEN. 

a low, brick wall, with^ stone coping and4]:-ou railing, and is 
laid out in walks, lawns, and flower-beds. North of the Con- 
servatory is the Bartholdi fountain, {see pp. 47 and 48) with 
marble basin 90 ft. in diameter. The fountain is supplied from 
the Acqueduct. and throws its highest stream, to an altii 
of 65 ft. This fountain in fall play presents a beautiful ef- 
fect, especially when reflecting the rays of the sun. S. of 
the Conservatorj'' is a smaller fountain, with a granite basin. 
During the summer the hardiest plants, in boxes, are ranged 
on either side of the main walk, and contribute materially to 
the beauty of the garden. 

The Main Conservatory^ commenced in 18G7 from designs 
by Mr. Clark, Architect of the Capitol, consists of a central 
dome and two wings. The base is of marble and the super- 
structure iron. The entire length Is 300 ft., greatest width 
60 ft., height of dome 40 ft., and wings 25 ft. The dome is 
supported on a brick column, which answers the double pur- 
pose of being a chimney also. Around this column winds an 
iron, spiral staircase, which leads to a cupola surrounded by 
a balustrade. From this point the finest view of the W. front 
of the Capitol may be obtained. The key. is kept by the. Su- 
perintendent. There are 10 smaller Conservatories^ of brick 
and wood, in one of which is a Lecture or Botanical Class- 
room, with accommodations for 100 students. The latter fea- 
ture contemplates the appointment of a Professor of Botany 
by the colleges of the capital to hold lectures here. All the 
conservatories are heated by hot water, conducted in iron 
pipes, supplied from 5 boilers. Three of the boilers are in the 
vaults under the pavement of the dome of the Main Conser- 
vatory. The object of the garden is education and the dis- 
trihution of rare plants. For the latter purpose there are 4 
conservatories devoted to propagation. All seeds are saved. 
The garden is under the control of the Joint Committee of 
Congress on the Library. Each member of Congress, on ap- 
plying to the chairman of the committee for plants or seeds, 
is supplied, if practicable. Boquets are frequently obtained 
in the same way. 

Botanical Collection. — The first collection of plants in 
this National Conservatory was brought to the United States 
by the Exploring Expedition to the'Southern Hemisphere, 
1838-'42, commanded by Captain (Kear Admiral) Charles 
Wilkes. The collection was first deposited in the Patent 
Office, but in 1850 was removed to the Botanical Garden. 
Some of 1 he plants are still living, and a large share of the 
present collection are the descendants of those brought back 
by the Wilkes Expedition. A few have furnished represent- 
atives for many of the principal conservatories of tlie United 
States and Europe. 



BOTANICAL GARDEN. 43 

The disposition of tiie collection is according- to a geograph- 
ical distribution. The strictly tropical plants occupy the cen- 
tre Conservatory, and those of a semi-tropical nature, requir- 
ing protection and lying towards the N. pole, are placed in 
the W. range and wing; and all indigenous to countries 
lying towards the S. pole are in the E. range and wing. 

The Centre Building or Rotunda^ temperature 80^, contains 
a fine variety of the majestic palms, called by Martins the 
princes of vegetation, and of which there ace 300 kinds, the 
most prominent being here represented. The most interest- 
ing in the collection is the palm tree of Scripture, familiarly 
known as the date palm. Jericho, the City of Palms, was 
so called from the numbers of this tree growing in its vicin- 
ity. It was recommended to be used by the Jews in the 
Feast of Tabernacles. In Arabia, Egj^t, and Persia it sup- 
plies almost every want of the inhabitants. The fruit i& 
used for food, the leaves for shelter, the wood for fuel, and 
the sap for spirituous liquor. It matures in 10 years and 
then fruits for centuries, bearing from 1 to 300 cwt. at a 
time. Among the Arabs the pollen dust is preserved from 
year to year, and at the season of impregnation of the pistils 
or female flowers a feast called "Marriage of the Palms" is 
held. It is a singular historical fact, that the date palm of 
Egypt bore no fruit in the year 1800, owing to the presence 
of the French army in the country, which prevented the an- 
nual marriage feast. 

Among the other plants in this portion of the Conservatory 
are the fan, royal, ratan, sago of Japan and China, Panama 
nat, oil, wine, coco de Chili, sugar, and cradle palms; the 
East India bamboo; the tree fem, from New Zealand ; as- 
crapea, from Madagascar ; screw pine of Australia, with its 
cork-screw leaves and roots in mid air; the cinnamon of 
Ceylon ; maiden's hau* fern ; mango, a delicious fruit of the 
West Indies ; and banana, that most prolific of all jjlants ; 
the great stag and elldiorn ferns from Australia, (very fine 
si)ecimens,) and the dumb cane of South America. The sap 
of the root of the latter will take away the power of speech. 
Humboldt, during his explorations in South America, was 
eight days speechless from tasting it. The outer circle of 
the rotunda is devoted to the smaller tropical plants. 

The E. range^ temperature 50°, and wing^ 40°, are de- 
voted more particularly to the plants of the South Sea Islands, 
Brazil, Cape of Good Hope, Australia, and New Holland. 
The principal specimens are the tree fern of New Zealand; 
the aloe and the Cafi're bread tree from the Cape of Good 
Hope ; the India rubber, the passion flower, the caladium, of 
Brazil ; Norfolk Island pine of Australia, one of the most 



44 BOTANICAL GARDEN. 

beautiful and largest-growing trees in the world ; the queen 
plant, or bird of paradise flower, from its resemblance to the 
plume of that bird ; the tutui, or candle-nut tree, from the 
Society Islands, the nut being used by the natives for lighting 
their huts ; the coff"ee plant, and several varieties of cactus. 

To the W. range and wing^ temperature same as E., the 
plants of China and Japan, the East and West Indies, and 
Mexico are assigned. The most notable plants here are the 
cycadacesB, of the East Indies, the largest in the country; 
tlie four-century plant ; the camellia japonica, or Japan rose ; 
tlie lovel}^ lily of Cuba; the historic papyrus antiquorum, or 
paper plant, of Egypt; the tallow and leechee trees of 
Cliina ; the guava, a delightful fruit of the West Indies ; the 
vanilla of Mexico, the species which furnishes the aromatic 
bean ; the black pepper from the East Indies ; the sugar cane, 
the cheramoyer, or custard apple, and cassava of the West 
Indies ; the sensitive and the Immble plants ; the American 
aloe, or century plant, of Mexico ; the camphor tree from 
Japan ; the tea plant ; the papay, an Oriental tree, which has 
the property of rendering the toughest meat tender ; a plant 
of the adansonia digitata, or monkey bread, which grows on 
the banks of the Senegal, and reaches the enormous circum- 
ference of 100 ft. They are supposed to attain the age of 
5,000 years. They have many uses. Humboldt pronounces 
them the oldest organic monuments of our planet. There is 
also a specimen of the carob tree of Palestine, sometimes 
•called St. John's bread. The pulp around the seed is sup- 
posed to have been the wild honey upon which St. John 
fed in the wilderness. There are other interesting speci- 
mens of the vegetable kingdom, including a pleasing variety 
of climbing plants. The arrangement of the exotics in the 
Central Conservatory presents the appearance of a miniature 
tropical forest, with its luxuriant growth of tree and vine. 
Until recently the Conservatory was in possession of a speci- 
men of the bohan upas tree, of which such fabulous stories 
have been told. Each wing of the Conservatory is supplied 
with a fountain. In the W. range is a vase, brought from 
St. Augustine, Florida, and taken from the first house built 
on the North American continent within the present limits 
of the United States. A fine specimen of maiden's hair fern 
grows in the vase. 

The outside conservatories are generally used for propaga- 
tion. One, however, is specially devoted to camellia japo- 
nica, and another to that curious growth, the orchids or air 
plants. The botanical collection received some valuable con- 
tributions from the expedition of Commodore Perry to Japan . 
The supply is kept up by propagation and purchase, and at 



THE LUTHER STATUE. 



45 



Luther Place.— In the small space in 

front of the "Memorial" Lutheran Church, 

abutting on Thomas Circle, stands the 

bronze Statue of Martin Luther, the 

Reformer, erected by "the Luther Statue 

Association" (incorporated, 1884) in com- 
memoration of the 400th anniversary of 

his birth, (Nov. 10, 1483). The Statue 

is a replica of the central figure of the 

Luther Memorial, or Reformation Group, 

at Worms, Germany, having been cast 

from the same mould \\hich was used for 

the original, and at the same foundry of 

Lauchhammer, in Saxony It weighs 

3,000 lbs , is 11%' high, and cost $5,000. 
The Pedestal of Maryland Granite, execu- 
ted by A. H. J ou venal, is 15' high and cost 

$3,000. The funds were contributed by 

Lutherans and other Protestant denomi- 
nations in Washington and elsewhere. In 

the pedestal was deposited a copper box 

containing a Bible, Hootlin's Life of 
Luther, I^uther's Smaller Catechism, the 
Lutheran Almanac for 1884, a U. S. Blue 
Book, Lutheran and City Newspapers, a 
history of the Statue, and names of sub- 
scribers to the fund. The Statue was unveiled May 21, 1884, 
The exercises under, the direction of Rev. J. G. Butler, Pastor 
of the Memorial Lutheran Church, N. of the Statue, lasted three 
days. Memorial oration, Sunday, May 18, by Rev. F. W. Con- 
rad. The unveiling ceremonies. May 21, 1884, consisted of ora- 
tions by O. D Conger, of Mich, a Senator of the U. S., and 
Rev. J. G. Morris, ot Md. Luther's Hymn, -^ Ein Feste Burg 
ist wiser Gott" (A Strong Fortress is our God), was performed 
by the Marine Band and united choirs, while W W. Corcoran, of 
Washington, the Philanthropist, pulled the cord removing the 
veil 

The Statue represents Luther clad in his priestly robes, his left 
hand clasps the Bible, supported on his left forearm, his right 
hand firmly clinched, rests on the cover of the Bible, and 
standing in the presence of the Princes of the Empire, and 
Bishops and Priests of Rome, assembled at the Diet of Worms, 
he is concluding his defense of an open Bible. 

Lighting the City — The lighting of the City is entirely by 
private companies. The first of these was incorporated in 1848. 
In that year Congress made an appropriation of $2,000 in full 




REITSCHEL'S LUTHER. 



46 



STATUES. 



for paying- the Washington Gas Company for lighting the 
Capitol and Capitol Grounds, to include fixtures ; for laying 
pipes from the main pipe at the Capitol to the foot of 15th st. 
W., on both sides of Pennsylvania av., and for 100 lamp- 
posts and lamps and other necessary fixtures. This was the 
first use of gas in the city. In the same year gas was also 
first introduced into the President's House. It has since 
grown into general use. The Government provides for the 
lightiug of all public buildings and grounds, and the District 
for avs. and sts. 

Statues. — The statues in the public parks contribute 
greatly to the adornment of the capital. A description of 
•each will be found with the grounds in which placed. 




The Washinc;ton Aqueduct (Jarvis). 

Water Supply.— The water of the city is carried from the 
Great Falls of the Potomac, by the Aqueduct, a distance of 
12 m., to a Distributing Reservoir, 2 m. from Rock Greek and 
U m. from the Capitol. The daily supply is 30 mUlion galls, 
and consumption 17 million galls., or m galls, to each per- 
son—the largest of any city in the w^orld. The full capacity 
of the Aqueduct is 80 million galls. A description of this 
remarkable work will be found in another part of this Hand- 
book. 

In the effluent screen well at the distributing reservoir are 
laid four 48-in. mouth-pieces for the supply of the city. Three 
of these are reduced in the pipe-vault to 36-in., 30-m., and 
12-in. Leaving the vault these three mains run parallel across 
the country to a small stream known as Foundry Branch. 



WATER SUPPLY. 



"47 



Kear this point they strike the road along the Chesapeake 
and Ohio Uanal, which they follow through Bridge and Aque- 
duct sts., Georgetown, to Kock Creek, a distance of 2 m. On 
the way the 30 and 12-in. mains cross College Pond, over an 
arch of 120 ft. span, composed of two 30-in. pipes. The 36-in. 
main is laid in the bottom of the creek. At Kock Creek two 
of the tlu-ee mains are joined, so that the water is conveyed 
tlirough two 48-in. pipes, which form an arch of 209 ft. span 
across that stream. These arches also sustain a roadway for 
general traffic between the cities of Washington and 
Georgetown (see aqueduct, page 217). Crossing the aque- 
duct bridge at the E. abutment, the three Ttiains are re- 
sumed and thence the vast water supply for the public 
and private buildings and fountains of the Capital is dis- 
tributed by the following larger conduits : 

The sb-im. h main along 
Pennsylvania av. to L st. 
N., thence on L st. to 
New Jersey av. 3 72-528 m. 

The 30-inck main along 
Pa. av. to K st. N,, along 
K to Massachusetts av., 
along Mass. av. to New 
Jersey av., along N.J. av. 
to Bst. N., and Lbet. N. 2^^ 
J. and Mass. avs. 3 4-5 m. ^^^ 

The 12-inch main along ^^^ 

Pa. av. to 8th St. E., along ^^, 

8th St. E. to the Navy , -^:==: 

Yard, with a branch line ^^^= 
from Pa. av. along 24th st. - — ==l 
W. to the Observatory; l - _ 
another from 8th st. W. ~ \Z^^ 
bet. Pa. av. and F. st. N., 11=^^, 
thence along F. st. N. to zz7Sl4^i 
7th St. W., along 7th St. to ^S^lg/g, 
G St. N.; another starting - -^'fe^^' 
at Mass. av., along 4th st. 
W. to D. St. N., along D. 
St. to 45^ St. W., along 4^^ 
St. to the Arsenal ; another 
starting at Pa. av., along 
nth St. W. to B. St. S. 
Total of main and branch- 
es, 9 3-5 m. 





The 2oinch main along 
B. St. S. at loth St. W., to 



BARTHOLDI FOUNTAIN (tHEILKUHL). 

(See Page 48). 

6th St. W., along 6th st. to Maine av., along Maine av. to Pa. av., from Pa. av. 
to B. St. N., along B st., bet. N. J. av. and ist st. E., and on B st. bet. ist st 
E.^and nth st. E., i m. 



The lo-inch main along 7th st. W. from G. st. N. to Mass. av., J^ m. 
The 8'inch main along Pa. av. from 2d to isth st. W., i 1-8 m. 



l8 THi: ilAiiJiuK. 

In the original plan of the city it was proposed to utilize the Tiber Creek, 
the elevation of the source of which was 237 ft. a'bove tide. Its water was to. 
supply the eastern part of the city and the Capitol, thence to form a cascade 
50 ft. wide 20 ft. fall into h reservoir beipw, thence in three falls across the west 
park of the Capitol, the Botanical Garden and the Mall. In 1832 the water oi 
Smith's Spring, 2]^ m. north of the Capitol, 30 ft- above its base and near the 
Howard University, was conducted into the Capitol building and fed the foun- 
tain in the west terrace. In 1836 Congress purchased this spring and one acre 
of land. In 1837 its waters were conducted into the Treasury Department, and 
later into the general Post Office In 1832 the spring in Franklin Square sup- 
plied the President's House and " ])ublic offices." In late years the aqueduct 
water has also been introduced. Other springs were also utilized 10 supply 
contiguous portions of the city. These have since been superseded from the 
aqueduct. Smaller supply pipes also extend through intermediate portions o*" 
the city. 

The total lenqih of water mains in the District of Columbia, 1881, was 175 
miles, viz.: laid by the United States, 30, 12, 6 and 4 inch, 18 m.; by the Dis-' 
trict of Columbia, 36, 30 and 20 inch., 6 m.; by the late Corporation of Wash- 
ington, 6 and 4 in., 117 m.; by the Water Department since organization to 
1881, 141 m. The supply is controlled by upwards of 800 large stop-cocks. 
There are upwards of 825 fire plugs, 700 taps, numerous fountains, great and 
small, hydrants, etc., and 20.000 water takers. There is a high service reser- 
voir for the more elevated portions of Georgetown (see page 212); also z.stand- 
pipe of limited capacity on the hill N. of i6th st. W. In 1881 there were 438 
fumps in use in the District, and new ones being added against possible 
necessities. 

By statute, the -water rates are limited to the cost of laying new pipes, keep- 
ing the old ones, in repair and current expenses of administration, but not for 
revenue. The rates are regulated by stories and front feet, viz.: per annum, 2 
stories with front width 16 ft. or less, $3.00 ; each additional story, ^i.oo ; addi- 
tional front foot, 25 c. There are also special business and miscellaneous rates. 
Receipts about $225,000. Disbursements about the same. 

Fountains. — There are many fine fountains in the city. 
The Bartnoldi (Frederic Augustus, a French sculptor, pupil 
of Ary Scheffer) Fountain, bronze, exhibited at the U. S. 
Centennial Exposition, 1876, purchased by Congress, 1877, 

$6,000 ; 30 feet high ; weight, 15,000 pounds ; and stands in 
the Botanical Garden. 

Is of iron, bronzed, cast in Paris by A. Durenne. The basin is 26 ft. in diam- 
eter. In the centre is a triangular pedestal, with aquatic monsters and fishes 
spouting water; 3 female Caryatides, 11 feet high, support a basin 13 feet in 
diameter; and an upper basin is upheld by 3 infant Tritons, the whole sur- 
mounted by a mural crown. Nine outlets. An illuminating apparatus of 12 
lamps, lit by electricity, gives the effects of light and water. The Marble Basin, 
90 feet in diameter, ordered by Congress in 1878, cost $3,000. The fountain 
plays in full on national holidays. Seepage 47. 

There is a fine fountain on the plaza north of the Treas- 
ury Department, consisting of an immense granite urn, 
the tassa of which measures 16 ft. in diameter. 

I The first public fountain erected in iSio, was by the mavoralty. 

The Harbor. — In front of Washington the Potomac, re- 
leased from the hills above Georgetown, expands into a broad 
lake-like river. 

The Potomac River rises in the Alleghany Mountains, and 
after a course of 400 m. empties into the Chesapeake Bay. 
At its confluence with the bay it is 7 J m. wide, and in front 



THE HARBOR. 49 

of Washington 1^ ni., with 18 ft. of water. The Anacostia 
at its month is nearly as wide as the main stream, and is 
fully as deep. Salt water reaches to within 50 m. of the city. 
The average tide at the Navy Yard is 3 ft. 

The Harhoi of Washington consists of a channel extending 
from Greenle-uf's or Arsenal Point, the upper point at tl^ 
junction of the Anacostia and Potomac, to the foot of 17th 
St. W., a distance of ^ m., and also a small channel in the 
Anacostia. 

The Potomac Channel has an average width of 400 ft. up 
to Maryland av. or Long Bridge, between the depths of 6 ft. 
at mean low water, and narrows to 250 ft. at the Arsenal 
wharf. The greatest depth to the lower wharves at 6th st. 
SW. is 11 ft., and to Maryland av. 8 ft. Above Long Bridge 
this channel gradually shoals, and is lost in the flats off 
17th St. 

The Anacostia Channel has an average width of 350 ft., 
between the depths of 6 ft. on either side, and narrows to 
250 ft. The greatest depth to the Navy Yard is 14 ft., and 
1 m. above is but 6 ft. 

The Harbor of Georgetoion consists of a depression in the 
bed of the Potomac, lying between the town front on the left 
bank and ^ small poi-tion of the right or Virginia bank and 
Analostan Island, near the same bank. This harbor has an 
average width of 800 ft., with an average depth of 25 ft. at 
mean low water. The depth over the bar in the main chan- 
nel of the Potomac just below this harbor is but 10 ft. at 
mean low water. This depth has been increased to 15 ft. by 
dredging. 

The Main Channel^ starting at the harbor of Georgetown, 
runs between Analostan Island andEasby's Point, the S. end 
of 27th St. W., along the bank of the river to the W. end of 
Long Bridge, and thence to Geisborough, or the lower point 
of the mouth of the Anacostia. Oif this it joins the channel 
of the Anacostia and that from the Potomac front of Wash- 
ington. Here the three unite, and form the broad channel, 
which extends down the main river. The length of the main 
channel from the canal aqueduct at Georgetown to deep 
water at Geisborough Point is 4| m. The depth at mean 
high water at the shoalest place in the Potomac below Wash- 
ington is 22 ft. Between the main channel of the Potomac 
and the shore lying between 17th and 27th sts. W. lies an 
expansive marsh of about 1,000 a., known as the flats, and 
mostly covered with a rank growth of water-grass. One third 
is clear at low water, and the remainder is covered from 1 to 
4 ft. It is stated by the engineers who have made a survey 
4 



50 COMMERCE. 

that these deposits increase yearly as the shores above are 
cleared of forest. 

Wharves and Canal.— The wharves of the city along the banks of the 
Potomac, at the foot of 17th st. W., are used by wood and sand craft; 7Sh st. 
W., by steamboats and schooners; and on the Anacostia, W. of the Navy-yard, 
for wood, lumber, coal, stone, sand, and other articles brought to the Washing- 
ton market. During the building of the city, the Acquia Creek stone for the 
Capitol was landed on the banks of the Tiber, about where the Potomac Gar- 
den now stands. The stream was deepened, so that with the aid of the tide flat 
boats could ascend. 

For the convenience of the wood, coal, and sand-boats, and other small craft 
destined for the city, jfames Creek, which enters the Anacostia immediately E. 
•of Barracks , in 1875 was dredged to a depth of 8 ft. at low-water mark, and 
widened to 60 ft. as far as Virginia av. at its intersection with S. Capitol st 
The old Washington Canal, which connected the Anacostia at the foot of ad 
St. E. with the Potomac at the foot of 17th st. W., commenced in 1791 and fin- 
ished in 1837, has been filled, and a covered sewer built in its place. 

Commerce, — The improving the navigation of the Potomac and the 
construction of a canal to the head-waters of the Ohio, were enterprises co- 
eval with the founding of the capital. Alexandria, 7 m. below, already en- 
joyed a commerce with the cities and towns on the Chesapeake, along the Atlan- 
tic coast, and the ports of foreign lands. Georgetown, }\\st above, also had a 
local trade of some importance. The introduction of steam on the Potomac 
took place shortly after its satisfactory application as a motive power in navi- 
gation. The Washington, Alexandria, and Baltimore Steam-packet Company, 
an earlier corporation, was succeeded by the Washington, Alexandria, and 
Georgetown Steam-packet Company, incorporated in 1829. T\iQ facilities of 
travel on the river and bay, and to points N. by the sea, by sail and steam, 
have at different times since been largely augmented. Merchant vessels belong- 
ing to the customs district of Georgetown, which includes Washington — 1872, 
sail 78, 2,081 tons ; steam 25, 5,084 J^ tons; unrigged 309, 18,490^^ : total 412, 
35,656 tons. There is an extensive home trade on the Potomac River and 
Chesapeake Bay, and by Sea, with the cities on the Atlantic seaboard. The 
dir&ct foreign trade is small, all imported goods being received through other 
ports. 

Harbor Improvement. — In 1872 a board of officers was appointed, under 
an act of Congress, with a view to the improvement of the channel of the river 
and the water fronts of Washington and Georgetown for commercial purposes, 
and the reclamation of the poisonous marsh opposite the city. The board re- 
ported three plans, that most favored proposing but one channel, of sufficient 
width and depth for all purposes ; a direct continuation of the river at George- 
town, to run along the right bank of the river as far down as Gravelly Point, 
and thence directly toward Geisborough Point on the left bank, joining the 
deep channel of the river at that point, following nearly the present main chan- 
nel of the river, and affording a frontage of 7 m. The channel, 23 feet deep, 
would be of sufficient width to enable the largest vessels to move with ease and 
free from danger of grounding, and also to discharge the heaviest freshets. The 
gT&2it. freshet of about 1852 swelled the river at the old Chain Bridge, just below 
the Little Falls, to a height of 43 feet above mean high water ; at the Aqueduct 
Bridge, 10 ft. ; at the Arsenal, about 3 4-5 m. below, 4^^ ft. ; and at Alexandria, 
about 3)^ m. still lower down, 2^^ ft. The width of channel adopted for the 
Anacostia is 600 ft., with a depth of 23 ft. at mean low water at the Navy Yard 
Bridge. For the transhipment of coal from the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, 
in front of Georgetown, it is proposed to erect suitable docks and piers, to be 
continued by lines of bulkhead, including piers, the whole commencing at the 
NE. corner of High and Water sts., Georgetown, and extending along the 
entire Washington front on the Potomac and Anacostia to the outer end of the 
N. abutment of Anacostia Bridge. 

With these improvements Long Bridge would be reconstructed, with spans of 
not less than 200 ft., and a pivot-draw, with two openings of not less than 160 ft. 
clear in each, the bridge to be constructed for railroad and ordinary travel. The 
estimated co«t of the whole work is §6,000,000 ; or less expensive materials, 
j4,ooo,ooQ. Land reclaimed, 1023 a. ; time to complete, 4 yrs. 




■ ■'^j'lfiiSiii ^"■■'! 



52 BRIDGES. 

It is proposed to remove the Naval Observatory, and use 
the earth for filling. 

Extension of the City.— Long Bridge, to the M^ater front, to 
be designated Railroad Avenue^ would be laid out in a road- 
way 200 ft. wide, with space for rail-tracks in the centre and 
a carriageway on either side. The irregular space between 
Maryland av. continued to the water, Kailroad av., and the 
bulkhead, including streets, 44 a., with 4 piers, to be re- 
served for railroad freight depots and workshops. The Mall 
would be extended W. to proposed Potomac av., would give 
an aggregate length of 2^^^ m., and would form a magnifi- 
cent triple avenue, sweeping away in front of the W. fa- 
pade of the Capitol, by the side of which would tower the 
Washington Monument, and along which could be erected 
statues and monuments to the memory of the great men of 
the Eepublic. The general system of streets and avenues 
would be extended over the reclaimed ground outside of the 
Government reservations, 454 a., with the exception of Eail- 
road av., now Long Bridge and Potomac av., 200 ft. wide, to 
run the entire length inside the bulldiead. The street, 100 ft. 
wide inside the bulkheads, on the Anacostia front, called by 
the name of that stream, would run from the Arsenal to the 
Navy-yard. 

Bridges. — There are no fine bridges across the Potomac or 
Anacostia connecting AVashingtonNvith the opposite shore. 
At the beginning of the present century there were four 
bridges : one across the Potomac into Virginia, and three 
across the Anacostia ; all owned by private companies. There 
are now the Long Bridge across the Potomac, which is also 
used for a railway, and the Navy Yard and Benning's, or the 
Upper Bridge, across the Anacostia. The Baltimore and 
Potomac Railroad Bridge also crosses the Anacostia above 
the Navy-yard. 

In 1809 a pile bridge, 1 m. long, with a draw on the E. and 
W. ends, was in use across the Potomac. The SW. end was 
iestroyed in 1814, by order of the Government, during the 
presence of a foreign enemy. It was restored in 1816. In 
1832 the Government purchased it and built a new one, which 
was destroyed by ice in 1836. It was restored in 1838. In 
1850 it was proposed to build an iron or stone arched bridge, 
but after plans were submitted the matter dropped. The 
railroad portion of the present Potomac bridge was built in 
1872. The entire structure consists of a way for vehicles 
and pedestrians and for the track of the Washmgton and 
Alexandria Railroad. Near the Washington end is a small 
draw over the E . channel. From this point a causeway crosses 



liiiiite! 



ii^ipilllll 



I 11 



llilllllllll'll! 



'''iiiii'ft!|l| 

'^""iiiiiiiiiiiii, 

teiiiii""''-"i, 



iiiiiiMI' 



liiJili i 



■III 



!■ 



Illlliii 



54 



BRIDGES. 



vhe marshes of the river to the Vu-ginia channel, which is sur- 
mounted by a wooden structure, with a draw suflacient to ad- 
mit of the passage of the largest vessels. It was by this bridge 
that most of the vast armies of the United States marched into 
Virginia during the rebellion, 1861-'65. 

The Navy Yard Bridge across the Anacostia, from the 
the foot of 11 St. E., to Uniontown or East Washington, 
supplanted a wooden structure, built in 1819. It was over 
this bridge that Booth escaped after the assassination of 
President Lincoln. 

The new Wrought Iron Truss Bridge, erected under act of Congress, Jun<* 
22, 1874, and opened June, 1875, cost, $146,000. Has horizontal top and bot- 
tom chords, vertical posts of" Phoenix" columns, and diagonal tie rods, built by 
Clark, Reeves & Co., Phcenixville, Penn. ; is 1700 ft. long ; roadway 20 ft. 
wide, and two side walks each 5 ft. wide; spans 102 ft. each ; one draw span 36ft., 
with 30 ft. clear opening, 12 hydraulic cement piers, and 2 abutments of granite, 
gneiss and lime stone laid in regular courses ; 440 ft. of causeway. Free Bridge 

above is the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Bridge. 

The Chain Bridge across the Potomac at the Little Falls, 
4 m. above Washington, connecting the District of Columbia 
and Virginia, was built before 1811, and was a chain suspen- 
sion bridge. This name has always been retained, though 
several structures — the last a Howe truss bridge, partly car- 
ried away in 1870 — have since been demolished by ice gorges 
and freshets, which rise to 40 ft. The present wrought-iron 
truss bridge was ordered by Congress in 1872, built by Clark, 
Reeves & Co., Phcenixville, Penna., was erected and opened 
in 1874. It is 1,350 ft. long, 20 ft. wide, 26 ft. higli, and has 8 
spans, from IGO to 170 ft. each. The floor beams are 15-in. 
rolled iron ; planking, 3-in. North Carolina Pine ; stands 30 
ft. over the main channel, and cost $100,000. The bridge 
rests on the old stone piers, raised 18 in., and is./ree. 

The other bridges within tlie District are Benning''s, a 
wooden structure, ^ m. above the Navy Yard, and the Aque- 
duct of the Alexandria Canal at Georgetown. 

Communication between Washington and Georgetown 
across Rock Creek is maintained by three bridges. The 
Pennsylvania-av. Bridge is a fine iron structure, consisting 
of an arch of 200 feet, formed by two 48-in pipes, used to con- 
vey the aqueduct water into the city. 

Railroads.— In 1831 Congress authorized the Baltimore and Ohio Railroa» 
to construct a branch into Washington. In 1841 two trains were running 
each way, time, 21^ hours, distance, 40 miles. Now the capital is connected 
by rail with all parts of the country. See General Information. 

Telegraphs. — In 1843 Congress appropriated $30,000 to test the practica- 
brlity of the system of electro-^nagnetic telegraphs invented by S. F. B. 
Morse. The line was completed between Washington and Baltimore in 1S45. 
To-day hundreds of wires bring the government into instantaneous communi* 
cation with the remotest section of the country, and the newspapers are 
furnished with daily telegraphic intelligence from the capital. 

Street Railways. — These convenient means of city transportation wer» 
introduced in 1862. (See General Information.) 



SECTION III. 
PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS. 



mSTOKICAL KETKOSPECT. 




to the 
for the 

United 



HE Legislative and Executive branches of the 
Government occupy buildings erected expressly 
for their accommodation. The co-ordinate, or Judi- 
cial branch, is yet without a structure of its own, 
though such provision for its accommodation was 
originally contemplated. The Capitol is devoted 
purposes of Congress, and affords limited facilities 
sessions and business of the Supreme Court of the 
States 




EXECimVE BUILDING. 1798-1871 

The increase of the Government business and the inad- 
equate accommodations afibrded by the public buildings, 
commodious as they are, has necessitated, in a nuniber of 
cases, the purchase or renting of private buildings in different 
parts of the city. 

The first public edifices built for the accommodation of the Executive Depart* 
merits in Washington, were the War Office (before 1800), S. W., and the Treat- 
ury Departr"^nt (after 1800), S. TT. of the President's Hmise. 



S6 



THE CAPITOL OF THE UNITED STATES. 



THE CAPITOL. 



The Capitol of the United States (open every day except Sunday) 
stands on the W. brow of the plateau which forms the E. portion 
of the City. No less than eleven avenues and streets converge at 
this point. See map of the City. 

Street Cars. — The Ctpitol may be reached from all parts of 
the city by horse cars. The Pennsylvania Ave. and Metropolitan 
or ^^ F Streef lines pass near the Capitol, the former having a 
branch to the House and the latter to the Senate wings. 

In the West 
Park, at the foot 
of the proposed 
grand staircase, 
is the heroic 
bronze Statneoi 
John Mar- 
shall, fourth 
Chief Justice of 
the U. S. and 
expounder of 
theConstitution, 
by W.W. Story, 
(a son of one of 
the subject's 
most eminent 
associates), cast 
in Rome. Cost 
o f Statue and 
pedestal, $40,- 
000, weight, 
4,000 lbs. Un- 
veiled May 10, 
1884. Opening 
address by Chief 
Justice Waite, 
Oration by W. 
H. Rawle, of 
Philadelphia. 

The Pedesta. 

is of drab Italian 

^ marble, inscri- 

^bed in front 

"John Marshall, 

Chief Justice of the United States. Erected by the Bar and the 
Congress of the United Sta-es, A. D. MDCCCLXXXiV." The 
bassi telievi represent, on the right, Minerva dictating the Consti- 
tution to Young America, and on the left, Victory leading Young 
America to swear fidelity on the altar of the Union. 




STORY'S STATUE OF MARbHAl L. 




|'NjH\'iiiii!l!l|i||j'ilJl'|p; 



58 THE GROUNDS. 

The Grounds. The park surrounding the Uapitol, en- 
larged 1872-3 by the purchase of squares in the N. E. and 
S. E. angles for $684,199, contains 51^ acres. The Capitol 
stands about the centre, and on the brow of the slope which 
sweeps down from Capitol Hill to Pennsylvania Avenue, 
and with its towering dome, massive porticos, its lofty col- 
umns, massive entablatures, and crownmg balustrade, is one 
of the most imposing structures in the world. In 1874 
Congress first appropriated for the systematic improvement 
of the Capitol Park. Fred Law Olmstead, of- New York, 
landscape architect, was entrusted with the work. 

'Y\\Q. general features are, on the East the continuation of East Capitol Street 
to connect with a broad paved carriage court, 300 feet wide, in front of the cen- 
tral portico. Opposite, and facing the building, is a seat with blue stone plinth 
and base, Seneca back, and blue stone coping and cap, and divided into 8 spaces 
by piers of blue stone and Seneca 3 feet 4 inches high, surmounted by bronze 
lantp posts 12 feet high. In front is laid a mosaic pave7nent in colors. 

Opposite the central portico are 6 lamp piers 13 feet high, with blue stone base 
and red sand stone band, and above blue stone and polished Passamaquoddy (red) 
granite in alternate courses, surmounted by bronze lajup posts 12 feet high, de- 
signed by Thomas Wisedell, of N. Y., cast by Janes & Kirtland, N. Y., 1874. 
In the rear, on either side of the main avenue, is a magnificent jlower casket, 
with blue stone and granite base 40x30 feet, surmounted by a bronze vase from 
which rises a spray fountain. The bronze lamp posts, lanterns, and flower 
caskets, cost $31,000. The walks, drives, lawns, and shrubbery are disposed 
with reference to scenic effects. 

In the Western Park two broad, paved footways, 30 feet 
wide, crossing a beautiful lawn, approach the Western 
entrance from Pennsylvania and Maryland Avenues. 

The improvement of the Western Park contemplates a magnificent terrace of 
marble with an imposing double flight of steps descending to a terraced walk 40 
feet wide and 1,000 feet long, terminating in beautiful pavilions. 

From the various converging avenues, drives and foot ap- 
proaches lead to the carriage courts, porte cocheres, and 
entrances to the mighty structure. On the west front of the 
Capitol is an oval basin, 78,827 gals., supplied from Smith's 
spring, 1^ miles IST. of the capitol, and just N. E. of Howard 
University, purchased in 1832. The marble fountain was 
erected m 1834. 




% g- 



m 



THE GilOUND8. 





COLUMBUb (ace ^age 66). settlement of America (bee Page 66). 

Ill the E. Park is the colossal statue of Geoige Washington, 
*'the father of his country," by Horatio G-reenou^-h, of Mass., 
ordered by Coiiotcss, 1832, for the Rotunda of rhe Capitol, 
made in Florence, Italy, was 8 years in completion, weighs 
12 tons, if erect would be 12 ft. high, and cost, including 
sculptor's work, freight, removals, and attendant expenses, 
144,000; of this $5,000 wei-e for transportation from the 
Washington navy yard to the Rotunda, about 1 m. The large 
size of the statue has occasioned considerable embarrassment. 
It was designed by Congress that it should be suitable to the 
interior of the Capitol. It was found entirely out of propor- 
tion there. Its final resting place is yet a matter of doubt. 

In the figure^ the right hand points to heaven, and the left, advanced, holds a 
Roman short sword, the handle presented. Over the right arm and lower parts of 
the body falls a mantle. The seat is ornamented with acanthus leaves and garlands 
of flov/ers. The carvings in the back admits of a view of the back of the statue. A 
small figure of Columbus rests against the left arm of the seat, and of an Iidian 
against the right. In basso relievo on the right of the seat is represented Phaeton in 
his car, drawn by fleet steeds, allegorically, the rising sun, and the crest of the arms 
of the United States. On the left are represented N. and S. America, as the infant 
Hercules strangling the serpent, and Iphiclus on the ground shrinking from the con- 
test. The back of the seat bears the inscription, '■'■Simulacrum istud ad magnum 
Lihertatis exemplum nee sine ipsa duraturum. HORATIUS Greenough, Faciabat. 
(This statue is for a great example of Liberty, nor without Liberty will the exam- 
ple endure. Horatio Greenough, Sculptor.) The pedestal is iz ft. high, and of 
«olid blocks of New England granite. The inscriptions are: S. face, "First in 
Peace;" N., " First in War; " W., " First in the hearts of his Countrymen." A 
better effect for the statute, and particularly softening its necessarily coarse lines, 
would be secured by elevating the pedestal to a height of at least 2,5 ft. 

In 1840 a United States frigate was despatched by Congress to bring the statue to 
the United States. The hatches, however, were not sufficiently large to admit il 
into the hold. A merchant ship, the Sea, was chartered and altered to accommo- 
date the unwieldly mass. In 1841 it arrived and was placed in the rotunda of the 



THE GROUNDS. 



bl 



Capitol. The 
main door was 
cut away to ad- 
mit it, and a pier 
of masonry c- 
rected beneath 
the pavement to 
support it. Here 
it was out of pro- 
portion, and in 
1842 it was re- 
moved to the E. 
Park, where it 
stood for many 
years beneath 
an uncouth shel- 
ter of pine 
boards. The sta- 
tue, while ad- 
mired as a work 
of art, has been 
much criticised 
as a misconcep- 
tion of the char- 
acter in which 
the subject is 
held in the hearts 
of his country- 
men. A foreign 
writer has desi 
nated it '■'•a sort 
of domestic Ju- 
piter." 

The Capito 
originally stood 
on the declivity 
of the hill, and 
on the VV. pre- 
sented a storv 
below the base 
line on the K. 
To correct this 
defect and great- 
ly enhance the 
imposing ap- 
pearance of the 
structure, the 




GREENOUGH S STATUE OF WASHINGTON. 



se m ici rcu lar 
range of case- 
mates, utilized for fuel and storage, was constructed, the outer face forming a beauti- 
ful green glacis. The ierre-plein is paved with Maryland Seneca stone, withan outer 
cap of New England granite. In 1828 the terrace was connected with the building by 
the broad platform opposite the western projection, and the west door was cut through. 
In 1873 the iron railing which enclosed the grounds was removed to give place to an 
cniarecd line of enclosure then purchased. 

The configuratioti of the iimnediate emhience upon which 
the Capitol'stands has been materially chan,o-ed and beauti- 
fied by the hand of art. The oi-iginal slopes have been mod- 
ified by terraces and slopes falling to the level of the divergent 
avenues. There is also an enlarged line of enclosure, em- 



62 GENERAL DESCRIPTION. 

bracino- the acquisitions of additional ground. 

General Description.— The Capitol of the United States, 
as now completed, is unquestionably the finest and largest 
building of the kind on the face of the earth, and does credit 
to the skill of the architects and the taste of the nation. 
In durability of structure and costliness of material it is also 
superior to any other. The great edifices of the Old World 
are accumulations of a number of centuries. The Capitol 
of the United States is the stupendous work of less than 
a single century. The elevated seat, formed by nature and 
art, upon which the Capitol stands, is 89J ft. above ordinary 
low tide in the Potomac, 1 mile distant, and is admirably 
adapted to the display of its vast proportions and architecture. 
The entire length of the building is 751 ft., and the greatest 
depths the breadth of the wings, 324 ft., including the porticos 
and steps. The ground-plan covers about 3^ acres. 

The structure in detail consists of a main building; and ^wo extensions^ or 
vnngs, with connecting corridors. The main or central building is 352 ft. in 
length, and, exclusive of the VV. projection, 121}^ ft. deep, with an £. central 
colonnaded portico 160 ft. wide, consisting of rows of monolithic Corinthian 
columns, 24 in number and 30 tt. high, exclusive of pedestals. 1^^^ portico is 
elevated on a rustic basement, surmounted by an enriched entablature and 

Sediment, the latter 80 ft. broad. Over this rises an attic story, surmounted 
y the Dome, i35j^ ft. in diameter. In the rear and on either side of this main 
portico the edifice rests on a basement to correspond with that of the portico. 
Above this rises the cr^^r, two stories in height, with pilasters, an entablature, 
frieze, and surmounting balustrade, carried out in the same architectural de- 
sign. It is proposed, at some future day, to take down this portico, and ex- 
tend the front of the central building E., to bring it at least on a line with the 
E. front of the two extensions, so as to perfect the architectural group. Be- 
tween the original building and each of the exten.-sions, which lie at the N.and 
S., is a connecting corridor oi /!,^ ft. in length and 56 ft. depth, with four fluted 
columns on either front. Each extension has a front of 143 ft. facing the E. 
and W., and depth of 239 ft. along the N. and S. facades. The latter is ex- 
clusive of the porticos and steps on the E., which correspond with the main 
building. 

Thejacades of each extension are embellished vfith porticos on three sides, 
those on the E. consisting of 22 fluted monolithic columns, in two rows, N. 
and S., and 10 on the W. ends, the columns facing the N. and S. respectively 
constituting the N. and S. fronts of the building. The porticos of the N, and 
S. facades are 124 ft. front. 

The west/ront of the main building presents a central projection of 83 ft. 
by 160 ft. front, with a recessed colonnade 100 ft. in extent, consisting of 10 
coupled columns, elevated on a rustic basement, as the E. front, and rising, 
with its entablature and balustrade, to the roof, surmounted by a paneled 
screen or attic. The rest of the W. front is the same as the E. There are no 
steps on the W. front of the main building, it being entered from the upper 
terrace. The extensions stand on a foundation of granite, raised about 4 ft. 
on all sides ; the basement or ground floor is reached by granite steps. On the 
E. facade are three broad fiigkts 0/ steps, which lead to the commencement 
of the order. Beneath the basement is a sub-basement, visible only and ac- 
C'Cssible on the outside from the casemated terrace on the W. 

The central building first erected is freestone, from the Government qtuir' 
ries at Aquia Creek, about 40 m. below the city, purchased by the Commis- 
sioners in 1791. This is painted, in order to conform in general appearance 
*^ith the wings, which are built of -white marble, from Lee, Massachusetts. 
The marble columns of the extensions are from the quarries at Cockeysville. 



THE DOME. 



63 



Maryland. The" appropriations made by Congress from 1800 to date for the 
erection and r {modeling of the Capitol amount to $15,000,000. 








IHB WESTERN FACADE AND PARK OF THE CAPITOL. 

The Dome. — Out of the centre of the mam building rises 
the great Dome of the Capitol^ designed by Walter, and which 
replaced a smaller one removed in 1856. It is of the follow- 
ing dimensions : 

Extenor Height — above the base line of the E. fa9ade of the 
Capitol to the top of the lantern, 288 ft.; above the W. gate 
of the park, 360 ft.; above the balustrade of the building, 218 
ft.; statue of Freedom on the apex, 19 J ft. Total height from 
base line to crest of statue of Freedom^ 307^ ft. Total height 
above low tide in the Potomac, 397 ft. Diameter, 135^ ft. 

The Dome rests on an octagonal base or stylohate^ 93 ft. 
above tlie basement floor, and as it leaves the top line of the 
building consists of sl peristyle^ 124 ft. in diameter, of 36 iron 
fluted columns, 27 ft. high, and weighing 6 tons each. Above 
this is a balustrade. From the entablature of the peristyle 
to the attic is 44 ft. Above the balustrade begins the domi- 
cal covering. The apex is surmounted by a lantern^ 15 ft. in 



54 



THE DUME 



diameter and 50 ft. high, suiToniuled by a peristyle, and 
crowned by the bronze Statue of Freedom. Just below the 
lantern is a balustrade around the crowning platform. The 
outer domical shell is pierced with glazed openings for the 
admission of light. In the lantern is a reflecting lamp, lighted 
by electricity, and used only when either or both Houses of 
Congress are sitting at night. This light is visible from all 
parts of the city. 
The Statue of Freedom, by Crawford, 1865, which sur- 




STATUE OF FREEDOM. 



CERES (peace) p. 66 — MARS (WAR) P. 66. 



mounts the lantern of the Dome represents in bronze the 
figure of a female, right hand resting on the hilt of a 
sheathed sword, the left hand on a shield and holding an 
olive wreath. The helmet crest is an eagle beak with 
plumes. The drapery is gathered about the waist b a 
brooch bearing the letters U. S. The statue is 19^ ft. hig h : 
weighs, 14,985 lbs. ; cast 1864-5 at Clark Mills foimdr 
Bladensburg, near Washington ; cost, $23,736 ; stands upon 
a bronze globe with an encircling zone, bearing the words 
FJ Pluribus Unum, which forms the cap of the dome. 

The weight of iron in the superstructure of the Dofne is 8,009^200 lbs. (3,5755^ 
tons). This rests on a substruction of masonry, and 40 interior massive stone 
columns supporting heavy groined arches, upon which also rests the pavement 
of the Rotunda. 

The casting and erection of the iron work of the dome was done by Janes, 
Fowler, Kirtland & Co., of N. Y., whose successors, Janes & Kirtland, con- 
tinue the work and fame of that celebrated establishment. 



PORTICOS. 65 

The following are the dimensions of the three greatest 
domes of Europe : 

St. Peter's, Rome, from the pavement to the base of the 
lantern, 405 ft. ; to the top of the cross outside, 458 ft. ; ex- 
terior diameter of the cupola, 195^ ft. ; interior, 139 ft. St. 
Paul's, London, England, to the top of the cross, 404 ft. : 
diameter, 112 ft. Hotel des Iiivalides, Paris, France, over 
the Tomb of Napoleon, 323 ft. 

It will be seen that the Dome of the Capitol of the United 
United States ranks fifth in height and fourth in diameter. 
The dome of the Cathedral of St. Isaac, at St. Petersburg, tho 
National Church of Russia, is 363 ft. in height, and is also a 
magnificent structure, built of iron and bronze. 

Porticos. — The E. fapade of the Capitol is broken by three 
grand porticos, reached by bi'oad flights of steps, and from 
which open the three principal doorways. Beneath each of 
these porticos are massive vaulted carriageways to the base- 
ment entrances, the centre one of which opens into the Crypt. 
The main Portico, IGO ft. in length, consists of 24 monolithic 
columns, 30 ft. high. On tlie tympanum of the pediment is 
an allegorical group in alto relievo^ by Persico, an Italian, 
representing the Genius of America. The principal figure, 
representing America, is of semi-colossal size, and standing 
on a broad unadorned plinth, holding in her hand a poised 
shield, with U. S. A. emblazoned in the centre of a ray of 
glory. The shield, which is oval, represents an ornamented 
altar, in the centre of which is a wreath of oak leaves, in basso 
relievo, encircling July 4, 1776. In the rear of the figure rests 
a broad spear, and at her feet an eagle, with partlj^-spread 
wings. The head of the figiu-e is crowned with a star, and 
inclines towards the figure of " Hope," who is addressing her. 
The right arm of "Hope " is raised, and the left rests on the 
stock of an anchor, the hand grasping part of the drapery. 
The Genius of America, in reply to Hope, who is recounting 
the glory of the nation, points to the figure on the otlier side, 
which represents Justice, with eyes uplifted, and holding in 
the right hand a partly-unrolled scroll, on which is inscribed 
" Constitution of the United States," and in the left the scales. 
Justice has neither bandage nor sword, representing that 
American justice judges intelligently. Tlie emblematic char- 
acter of the group suggests that, however Hope may flatter, 
all prosperity should be founded in public right and the pres- 
ervation of the Constitution. The execution of the work is 
excellent, but cannot be entirely appreciated from its raised 
position. All the figures are cut in sandstone, and 7h ft. in 
height. The sculptor at first contemplated giving' more 
o 



66 PORTICOS. 

nudity to the group, but being persuaded that it was con- 
trary to the sentiment of the people of the United States, went 
to the other extreme. The ascent to this portico is by an im- 
posing flight of freestone steps, flanked on either side by mas- 
sive buttresses. On the S. buttress stands a semi-colossal 
group of statuary by Persico, an Italian, 1846, representing 
tlie Discovery of America^ in a figure of Columbus, holding 
aloft a small globe, on the top of which is inscribed America 
At his side crouches an astonished and awe-stricken Indian 
maiden. The group consumed 5 years in execution, and 
cost $24,000. It is said that the armor is true to a rivet, hav- 
ing been copied from a suit in the palace of the descendants 
of the discoverer at Genoa. The corresponding group on 
the ]Sr. buttress, by Greenough, 1842, represents the First Set- 
tlement of America^ consisting of five figures : a hunter rescu- 
ing a woman and child from the murderous Indian, while by 
the side is a faithful dog. The work consumed about 12 
years in execution, and cost $24,000. It is of Servazza mar- 
ble. Persico was first designated to make this group. In the 
niches on the r. and 1. of the great Bronze Door, opening into 
the Rotunda, are the colossal statues of Peace and War, both 
by Persico, 1832. Peace is represented by the Goddess Ceres, 
a gentle maiden, with loose flowing robes and sandals. In 
her r. hand she bears fruit, and her 1. an olive branch. War 
is represented by Mars, a stern warrior, attired in Roman 
toga, belt, and tunic, with helmet and sandals. The tunic 
bears the symbols of his victims. The statues are of the 
finest quality of Cararra marble, each 9 ft. in height, were 
5 years in execution, and cost $12,000 apiece. Both are fine 
specimens of art. Over the Bronze Door is a basso relievo by 
Capellano, 1827, representing Fame and Peace in the act of 
placing a laurel wreath upon the brow of Washington. In 
panels on either side are bundles of radiating arrows, with 
surroundings of leaves. 

The E. Portico of the North or Senate Extension is reached 
by a broad flight of 46 marble steps, broken by 4 landings, 
and flanked by massive cheek-blocks, carrying out the design 
of the central Portico. This portico measures 143 ft., and is 
adorned by a double row of monolithic Corinthian columns, 
22 in all, 30 ft. high, exclusive of base, and is surmounted 
by a pediment of 72 ft. span. The group of figures on the 
Tympanum, by Thomas Crawford, symbolizes the Progress 
of Civilization in the United States. The centre figure repre- 
sents America, with the rising sun in the background. On 
her r. are figures of War and Commerce, Youth and Educa- 
tion, Mechanics and Agriculture. On her 1. the Pioneer, the 
Hunter, and the Aboriginal Race. The latter is represented 



MAIN BRONZE DOOR. 



67 



by an Indian and squaw, with an infant in her arms, seated 
by a filled grave, typical of the decadence of the red race. 
This group, ordered in 1862, was cut by Italians, out of Amer- 
ican marble from Massachusetts, and cost $45,950. 

The E. Portico of the South or ''''House'''' Extension,, in archi- 
tectural design, dimensions, and material, is the same as 
that of the N. Extension, The portico is without statuary 
or sculptured embellishment ; yet, with its beautiful marble 
columns supporting the entablatm-e and surmounting pedi- 
ment, it is grand in its nude proportions. 

The W. facade, the central projection and extensions, and 
the N. and S. faces of the building, are decorated with col- 
onnades, of beautiful proportions, and surmounted by balus- 
trades, all in harmony with the porticos on the E. 

1. Main Bronze Door. — The great Bronze Door, modeled 
in Rome, 1858, by Randolph Rogers, and cast in bronze in 
Munich in 1860, by F. v. Miller, fills the main doorway, 
from the grand Portico 
into the Rotunda. The 
valves of the door stand 
in a superbly enriched 
casing, also of bronze, and 
fold back into suitably 
fitted jambs. The height 
is 19 ft.; width, 9 ft.; 
weight 20,000 lbs., and 
cost $28,000. 

In 1862 this door stood in the 
south doorway of the old Hall of 
Representatives. In 1871 it was 
removed to its present appropriate 
place. 

The events portrayed 
in the panels of the door 
constitute in alto relievo 
the principal events in 
the Life of Columbus 
and the Discovery of 
America, with an ornate 
enrichment of emblemat- 
ic designs. On the key 
of the arch is an excel- 
lent Head of Columbus. In 
the casing are four typi- 
cal statuettes representing 
A, Asia; B, Africa; C, 
Europe; T>, America. The BlH^^E 
rest of the casing is em- the main bkonze door. 




68 



MAIN BRONZE DOOR. 




bellished with a running bor- 
der in relief of ancient armor, 
banners, and heraldic designs, 
emblematic of Navigation and 
Conquest. Sixteen statuettes of 
the patrons and contempora- 
ries of Columbus embellish the 
outer borders of each leaf of 
the door, as follows : 

1 . Alexander VI, Roderigo Lenzoli Bor- 
gia, a native of Spain, Pope of Rome 1492. 
1503- 

2. Pedro Gonzales de Mendoza, Arch- 
bishop of Toledo, and Grand Cardinal 
of Spain, a man of great influence at 
court, and early patron of Columbus. 

3. Ferdinand, King of Spain, royal pa- 
tron of the undertaking of Columbus. 

4. Isabella, Queen of Spain, and royal 
patroness of Columbus. 

5. Charles VIII, King of France, an en- 
lightened monarch and friend to the cause 
of discovery. 

6. Lady Beatriz de Bobadilla, Marchion- 
ess of Moya, and friend of Columbus. It 
is said the likeness is of Mrs. Rogers, wife 
to the sculptor. 

7. John II, King of Portugal, the mon- 
arch who rejected the proposals of Co- 
lumbus. 

8. Henry VII, King of England, ap- 
pealed to by Bartholomew Columbus on 
behalf of his brother ; meantime the dis- 

MAiN BRONZE DOOR. covery was accomplished under the aus- 

(Also see page 70.) pices of Spain. 

9. Juan Perez de Marchena, prior of the Convent of La Rabida, and friend to 
Columbus. 

10. Martin Alonzo Pinzon, commander of the Pinta, the second vessel in the first 
fleet across the ocean. 

11. Hernando Cortez, early companion of Columbus, and conqueror of Mexico. 

12. Bartholomew Columbus, brother to Christopher, advocate of his theory at the 
court of Henry Vll, and first Adelentado of Hispaniola. It is said that the likeness 
is of the sculptoi 

13. Alonzo de Ojeda, a companion of Columbus in his first voyage of discoverv 
and one of the most daring of his contemporaries. 

14. Vasco Nunez de Balboa, discovcrei of the Pacific Ocean from the Isthmus o* 
Darien. 

15. Amerigo Vespucci, one of the earlier discoverers of the main land of America, 
author of the first account of the New World, and from whom the coniinent taken its 
name. 

16. Francisco Pizarro^ conaueror of rera 



A 
C 


15 
9 












16 

14 

12 
W 


B 
D 


IV 


2 


1 


VI 












III 


4 


3 


VII 












II 


6 


5 


vin 












I 


8 


7 


IX 























PRINCIPAL STULIY, 



(>9 




J 8 

5 s 



70 MAIN BRONZE DOOR. 

'£he panels illustrate in alto relievo the leading events in *he 
career of Columbus, beginning at the lower panel of the r. or 
S. leaf of the door. 

I. Columbus examined before the Council of Salamanca respecting his theory 
of the globe, which was rejected. 

II. Departure of Columbus for the Spanish court from the Convent of La Rabida, 
near Palos. 

III, Audience at the court of Ferdinand and Isabella. 

IV. Departure of Columbus from Palos on his first voyage of discovery. 

V. Transom panel, Columbus landed on the Island of San Salvador, and taking 
possession in the name of his sovereign. 

VI. Encounter with the natives. 
VII. Triumphal entree of Columbus into Barcelona. 
VIII. Columbus-in chains. 

IX. The death-bed of Columbus. He died at Valladolid,May 20, 1506, aged 70 
years. His last words were: " In manus iuas^ Domine, commendo spiritum meum," 
"Into thy hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit." Thirty years after his remains 
(vere transferred to the Cathedral of San Domingo, on the island of that name. In 
1796, when the Spaniards lost their hold on the island, they were removed to Havana. 

Between the panels are a series of heads, representing the 
historians of the voyages of Columbus and his followers. That 
above the lower or N. panel of the door is Washington Irving^ 
and in the corresponding position opposite W. H, PrescoU, 

Eotnnda. — From the central Portico, passing through the 
great Bronze Door, the visitor stands under the lofty canopy 
of the Kotunda. The height from pavement to canopy is 
180 ft., and diameter 96 ft. The circuit of the sides is di- 
vided into eight panels, separated by massive Koman pilas- 
ters, supporting an entablature ornamented with wreaths of 
olive 

Over the panels are busts in alto relievo beginning on the left of the west 
door, of Columbus, Raleigh, Cabot and LaSalle, executed by Capellano and 
Caucici, Italians, pupils of Canova, ordered 1827, cost with wreath-work ^9,500. 
Over the four entrances are alto relievos, cost ^3,500 each. 

East Door^ Landing of the Pilgrims 1620, Caucici 18 — , a pupil of Canova ; 
West Door, Pocahontas Saving the Life of Captain Smith, Capellano, 1821, a 
pupil of Canova ; North Door, William Penn Holding a Conference with the 
Indians, 16S2, Gavelet, 1827; South Door, Daniel Boone in Conflict with the 
Indians, 1773, Caucici, 18 — . All these are wretched caricatures^. 

In the frieze 300 ft. in circumference and 10 ft. high are representations in 
fresco by Constantino Brumidi, 1878-80. 1. America and History; 2. Landing 
of Columbus ; 3. Cortez and Montezuma at Mexican Temple ; 4. Pizarro oft 
Peru ; 5. De Soto's Burial in the Mississippi River ; 6. Rescue of John Smitl 
by Pocohontas ; 7. Landing of the Pilgrims ; 8. Penn's Treaty with the In 
dians, unfinishe/^ at the death of Brumidi, resumed by Filippo Costiggini, also 
a native of Rome, July 1880, and executed the four cartoons left by Brumidi, 
9. Colonization of New England; 10, Oglethorpe and the Muscogee Indians ; 
li. Battle of Lexington ; cartoons 12 to ifi will be of designs by the new artist. 
The style is fresco in Chiaro-osctt-y o (Light and Shade). 

The Historioal Paintings :-Jn the rotunda represent the discovery and 
settlement of N. America and events in the struggle for inde- 
pendence. 

The Trumbull paintings were ordered in 1817, and finished in 1824. Trum- 
bull served as aid-de-camp to Washington in 1775. His figures are likenesses 
of the actors in the scenes Dortraved. taken in America and Eurooe. 



ROTUNDA. 



71 




SECTIONAL VIEW OF THE DOME. 

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The Canopy of the Rotunda consists of an inner shell of 
iron ribs and lathing, laid with plaster suitable for frescoing, 
180 ft. above the pavement, 65^ ft. in dianaeter, 204 ft. in cir- 
cumference, 21 ft. vertical height, 5000 sq. ft.; the frescoes.or- 
dered by Congress, 1864, were executed by Constantino Bru- 
midi, and cost $50,000; $39,000 compensation,balance for ma- 
terial. When Illuminated by hundreds of gas jets, lighted by 
electricity. The effect is very fine. 




THE CANOPY OF THE ROTUNDA. 

The apex of the canopy represents an apotheosis of Washington, with Free- 
dom on his right and Victory on his left. The 13 Female figures represent the 
geographical order and products of the original States, and also support a band 
inscribed E Pluribus Unum. On the outer zone, 204 ft. in length, are 6 groups 
allegorical of the Revolution, 1776-83, as follows : 

1. The Fall of Tyranny. — Represented by Freedom and an Eagle battling 
with Tyranny and Priestcraft; a mailed soldier vainly struggling to uphold the 
ermined robe of royalty. Discord stands by; also Anger and Revenge, with the 
incendiary torch. 

2. Agriculture, towards the N. — Represented by Ceres, with cornucopia. 
America, wearing a red Cap of Liberty, turning over to Ceres the mastery of a pair 
of horses attached to a reaper. Flora is gathering flowers, and Pomona bears a basket 
of fruit. 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 81 

3. Mechanics. — Represented by Vulcan, resting his r. foot on a cannon, and 
around are the various instruments of his art, with mortars and cannon balls. 

4. Commerce. — Represented by Mercury, holding a bag of gold, and directing 
attention to it. The figure thus called is Robert Morris, the financier of the Revo- 
lution. Merchandise, with men at work, and two sailors, pointing to a gunboat, 
complete the allegory. 

5. Marine. — Representing Neptune in his car, bearing his trident, accompanied 
by attendants, emerging from the deep. Amphrodite, Venus, is about dropping 
into the foaming waters an electric cable, which has been handed her by a cherub. 

6. Arts and Sciences. — Represented by Minerva, the Goddess of W^isdom-. 
surroundea by figures — Franklin, the philosopher; Fulton, the inventor of the 
steamboat J and Morse, the inventor of the magnetic telegraph. The figures of 
juveniles indicate teaching. 

3. West Door of tte Eotunda, leading to the main door of 
the Library of Congress. This door is also at the head of the 
staircase leading from the Western Entrance of the Capitol 

4. Western Main Staircase, connecting- Western Entrance 
5 and 6. Library of the United States. — {Open every day,, 

Sundays excepted^ from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m.; during sessions oj 
Congress till hour of adjonrnment.) 

The Library Halls occupy the principal floor of the entire 
W. projection of the Capitol, consisting of a connecting cen- 
tral hall, 911- fl . long, 34 ft. wide, and 38 ft. high, completed 
in 1853, with two wings on the N. and S., each 95 ft. long, 29^ 
ft. wide, and 38 ft. high, finished in 1865. The interior was 
designed by :Mr. Walter, Architect of the Capitol, who com- 
pleted the central library, and the wings were carried out by 
Mr. Clark, his successor, at a total cost of $280,000. The cen- 
tral library consists of 12 deep recesses, or alcoves, surmount- 
ed by 2 upper tiers of cases, with galleries and corridors, all of 
iron. The hall is lighted by windows in the alcoves and by 
skylights fitted in the iron frame-work of the roof, and trans- 
mitted through the ceiling. This consists of iron fi-ame-work 
supported upon massive foliated iron brackets, each weigh- 
ing 2,000 lbs. The alcoves and shelves are embellished with 
pilastered and paneled fronts, painted a soft buff color and 
artistically gilded. The book-shelves are also of iron, and 
covered with 1 eather . The fioors are of tessellated black-and- 
white marble. The wings are of the same design as the cen- 
tral hall. The former have 4 tiers of shelves instead of 3. Heat 
and ventilation are supplied from the Senate and House ap- 
paratus, 200 ft. distant, on either side. The iron-work was 
manufactured in New York, and transported in pieces. It 
is the only completely fire-proof library in the world. The 
library halls aftbrd accommodation for 172,000 volumes, and 
with the attic and law library 210,000. The additional space 
required has been in part supplied by temporary wooden 
shelves ranged along the galleries. 

It is proposed to erect a suitable building in the angle of 
the E. Park of the Capitol, to be specially devoted to the pur- 
poses of the Library of the United States. 



82 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

The Library of Congress now numbers upwards of 315,000 bound volumes, 
and 100,000 pamphlets, besides manuscripts. The annual increase is about 
i2,ooo volumes. There are sixteen libraries in Europe containing a greater 
number of volumes. The Library of Congress is the largest in the United 
States. Each House of Congress has a documentary library of its own, com- 
prising all official documents published under their own authority. 

A fine view of the city may be had from the western portico. (See map of 
city for points of interest.) 

Under the Rules of the Z/(Jr«ry the privilege of taking books out is accorded 
by divers statutes. All persons 16 years and upwards can call for books to be 
used in the Hall. 

T\i\s national collection of books \ias many distinctive features. It is rich 
in books, pamphlets, journals, manuscripts, and maps relating to the history 
and topography of America. It is only approximated in this particular by 
the library in the British Museum in London. Among the rare ivorks are two 
great folios, written on vellum, -with numerous illuminations by hand, executed 
with the utmost care in the 13th century ; a constitution of Pope Clement V., of 
Rome, 1467, by Peter Schoeffer at Mentz ; a copy of Eliot's Indian Bible ; 300 
early atlases and maps, some unpublished, of the American continent ; a large 
number of incunabula, or books printed during the infancy of the art, by the 
most distinguished early printers, representing every year from 1467 to 1500; 48 
folio volumes of historical autographs of great rarity and interest. 

Librarians of Congress. — Clerks of the House of Representatives : iSoa- 
1807, John Beckley, of Va.; 1807-1815, Patrick Magruder, of Md. Librarians: 
1815-1829, George Watterson, D. C.; 1829-1861, John S. Meehan, N. Y.; i86i- 
1864, John G. Stephenson, Ind.; 1864, Ainsworth R. Spoflford, Ohio. 

History. — The Library of Congress was founded under act of April 24, 1800. 
John Randolph, of Roanoke, of the new committee on the Library, on Dec. 
18, 1801, reported upon the needs of the Library, and on January 26, 1803, 
Congress passed an act placing it on a permanent footing. The first collection 
comprised about 3,000 volumes. From this time various sums from ^450 to 
$12,000 per annum have been appropriated by Congress for purchases. In the 
burning of the Capitol by the British in 1814, the Library was destroyed. On 
September 21, 1814, Thomas Jefferson tendered the sale of his library of 6,700 
volumes. It was purchased by Congress for $23,950. The collection contained 
many rare works gathered in Europe. In 1824 the Library was transferred 
from its temporary quarters over the present offices of the Clerk of the Su- 
preme Court, to the present main hall. On Dec. 24, 1851, the Library then 
numbering 55,000 was destroyed by fire, occasioned by a defective flue. About 
35,000 volumes were burned. Amongst the works of art destroyed were Stuart's 
paintings of the first five Presidents, and originals of Columbus and Peyton 
Randolph. In 1852 Congress appropriated $157,500 to refit the hall, which led 
to the present elegant accommodations. In i865 the Smithsonian Library^ 
consisting of 40,000 volumes, embracing the largest assemblage of the trans- 
actions of scientific and learned societies in the world, was transferred to the 
Library. In 1867 the Peter Force Collection of books, manuscripts, maps and 
papers relating to American history, the most complete extant, was purchased 
for $100,000. 

On July 8, 1870, the copyright business of the United States was placed under 
the Librarian of Congress, subject to the joint committee on the Library. Two 
copies of the best edition of every book copyrighted must be deposited. 

The La-w Branch of the Library of Congress (see number 44 Plan of Base- 
ment Story) was not regularly established until the act of 1832. The Librarian 
of Congress was placed in charge. The Justices of the Supreme Court were to 
have free access to the Library, and to make rules and regulations for its proper 
custody and management, but not in conflict with the same for the government 
of the Library of Congress. All appropriations, about $2,000 per annum, are 
expended by the Librarian of Congress, under the directionof the Chief Justice. 
The Library now numbers about 50,000 volumes, and is the largest and most 
♦aluable in the United States. In 1848 it was assigned to its present quarters. 



7 and 8. Store-ronma for the Libraiy 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



83 



CENTRE BUILDmO— NORTH WING. 

9. I^orth Door of the Eotunda.— On the left of the passage 
are the indicators and keyswhioh operate the wires for light- 
ing the Rotunda. (See 11.) This passage leads into — 

10. Vestibule, of an elliptical shape, and in imitation of a 
Grreek temple, containing a peristyle, supported on an arched 
substruction. The capitals of the pillars are ornamented with 
the leaf and flower of the tobacco plant. Light is admitted 
through a cupola in the small surmounting dome. The latter 
is broken by caissons, enriched by the tobacco blossom. 




_MA UBiiK OF THE hUPKEME COUK f OF THE UNITED STATES. (bee Pa>!,e 64. ^ 

11. Ascent of Dome. — At the head of the first flight on 
the r. is the entrance to the battery and electric gas-lighting 
apparatus. (See Attic story, 3, 4, and 5.) 

Continuing the ascent, an opportunity is afforded of studying the inechanism 
of the immense structure overhead. A small door at the top of an intricate 
dight of steps opens between the inner and outer shells. Above a doorway 
opens under an imposing peristyle of 36 iron columns. The last ascent is by 
a^ abrupt flight of steps over the inner shell, to the platform beneath the can- 
opy, affording a closer view of Brumidi's allegory. See Page So. This platform 
ro^k&s a fine whispering gallery. Another flight of steps leads to the crowning 
platform, from which the nzost extensive vievj of the city may be had 



84 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

12. Vestibule of the Supreme Court. — A door from the ves- 
tibule, of Greelv design, opens into a second vestibule, from 
which, on the right or east, opens the main entrance to the 
Supreme Court. Opposite is a prostyle of Potomac marble. 

13. Supreme Court United States. — {Open to visitors every 
day, except Sunday.) The apartment occupied by this tribu- 
nal, foiTnerly the Senate Chamber, is semi-circular, with a 
rather flat dome, enriched with square caissons in stucco, and 
circular apertures to admit light . The chamber is 75 ft . great- 
est length or diameter, 45 ft. greatest width, and 45 ft. high. 
On the E. side a screen of Grecian Ionic columns of breccia, 
or variegated Potomac marble, with capitals of white Italian 
marble, modeled after those of the Temple of Minerva, pol- 
ished, extends along the back of the range of seats of the 
Justices. These columns, with the entablatm-e, support a 
gallery. The seats of the Justices are raised several feet 
above the floor, and are ranged behind a low screen, which 
answers the pm-pose of desks. The Chief Justice occupies 
the centre seat. The officers of the court have desks at either 
end and at the foot of the Justices' platform. The floor is 
beautifully carpeted, and tables and chau-s are placed within 
the bar for the accommodation of those having cases before 
the court. Outside the rail are seats for visitors. See Page 83- 

Against the west wall are marble consoles supporting busts of the departed 
Chief Justices : — ^John Jay, by John Frazee, 1831, ^400; John Rutledge, by A. 
Gait, 1857, ^800 ; Oliver Ellsworth, by Hezekiah Augur, 1834, $400 ; John 
Marshall, by John Frazee, 1836, ^500; Roger B. Taney, (after Rhinehart) 
A. L. St. Gaudens, 1876, ;^7oo ; Salmon P. Chase, (from a mask taken in 
1857) '^- ^' Jones, 1875, $1000. 

It was designed in the original plan of the city to erect a separate building 
for the uses of the Judiciary, and for that purpose Judiciary Square was set 
apart. Nothing however was done. In February, 1801, the Supreme Court 
of the United States was assigned to the room immediately below that now oc- 
cupied by it. The present apartment was occupied in December, i860. 

The times for holding the sessions of the Supreme Court have been subjected 
to frequent changes by statutes since 1789. The annual session now com- 
mences on the second Monday of October in each year. The adjournment 
usually takes place m May following. The daily sessions are from 12 noon 
to 4 p. m. The Justices, wearing their judicial robes, enter from the N. door 
of the chamber, and are formally announced by the Marshal or deputy. The 
people in the room rise and remain standing till the Justices are seated. The 
opening of the court is then proclaimed by a proper officer. 

When the court-room was occupied by the Senate the President's chair stood 
in a niche in the screen of columns, and was raised on a platform. In front 
and lower were the desks of the Secretary and Chief Clerk. The entablature 
of the screen supported a gallery, in front of which was another, following 
the circle of the room, and supported by iron columns, with bronzed 
caps, surmounted by a gilt iron balustrade. Against the wall over the E. gal- 
lery was a fine painting of Washington, by Charles Wilson Peale, richly 
framed and draped. The President's chair standing on the line of the diame- 
ter of the circle, formed the centre of the radiating aisles, between which, in 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



85 



concentric curves, were arranged the Senators' desks. There were acccmmo- 
dations for 64 Senators. In the rear a railing enclosed the bar of the Senate, 
Outside were sofas for privileged visitors. It was in this Hall that Webster, 
Calhoun, Clay, and their cotemporaries, made their great speeches. 

Originally there was an upper gallery on the E. side, supported by an attic 
colonnade, but this was removed in j 828 to admit more light. The ap- 

proaches to the chamber and galleries were exceedingly dark and gloomy. 
At night a gas chandelier diffused light. On the W, side of the building, 
across the main vestibule, were the offices of the Secretary of fhe Senate, now 
occupied by the officers of the court. The two rooms on the N. side were as- 
signed to the President and Vice President — now the robing rooms. 

Chief Justices.— 1789, John Jay, N. Y. ; 1795, John Rutledge, S. C, re- 
jected; 1796, William Gushing. Mass., declined; 1796 Oliver Ellsworth, Conn., 
1800, John Jay, N. Y. ; 1801, John Marshall, Va. ; 1836, Roger B. Taney, Md.; 
1864, Salmon P. Chase, Ohio; 1874, Morrison R. Waite, Ohio. 



The Judiciary.— 
The jfudicial power 
of the United States, 
under Constitution, 
is vested in one Su- 
preme Court and 
liuch inferior courts 
as Congress may de- 
termine. United 
States Judges can 
only be removed by 
impeachment. They 
are appointed by the 
President and con- 
firmed by the Sen- 
ate. The jurisdic- 
tion of the Supreme 
Court is confined to 
civil cases between 
states or citizens 
thereof, questions 
under treaties or be- 
tween aliens and 
exercises appellate 
and revisory juris- 
diction in certain 




14. Eobing Room. — In this apartment the Chief Justice of 
the Supreme Court and his Associates attire themsQlves in 
their court robes, in which they sit on the supreme bench. 

On the walls are portraits of Chief Justices, John Jay, by Henry Peter 
Gray, 1813, after Gilbert Stuart, 1793, represented in the robe with scarlet fac- 
ings worn by the degree, LL. D., University of Edinburgh, conferred on him, 
? resented 1876, by John Jay, his grandson. John Marshall, by Rembrandt 
eale, 1825, presented to Chief Justice Chase by the bar of New York, by whom 
it was bequeathed, 1873, to the Supreme Court of the United States. R. B. 
Taney, by J. G. P. Healy, 1858,^800, taken from life, 85th year, presented. 
1876, by the bar and clerk of the court. 

From the Robing Room the Justices, in tlieir judicial robes, 
at the hour of meeting of the court, cross the corridor, and, 
passing through the 



8t> CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

15. Justices' Passage and Entrance, enter the Supreme 
Court Koom, where they are properly announced by the 
Marshal or his deputy. 

16, 17, and 18. Offices of the Olerk of the Supreme Court of 
the United States. The entrance is from the vestibule, (12.) 

ig. Steps to the Basement and Crypt. {See basetnent story .) 

20. Marshal's Office of the Supreme Court of the Unnited States. 

21. Steps to the Senate Library. (See Nos. 6, 7, and 8, Attic Story.) 

22. Corridor connecting the centre or old Capitol building with the Senate 
Extension. The main door to the floor of the Senate Chamber is directly 
opposite. The cornice is artistically executed, and the panel of the ceiling is 
formed by a fasces border in stucco. Walls tinted. 

NORTH OR SENATE EXTENSION. 

23. Southern Corridor. — Connects the eastern and western corridors. This 
corridor has a vaulted ceiling of three circular arches, with intervening bands 
and groined arches, chastely decorated in stucco, and tinted. 

Official Telegraph. — At the western end of this corridor is t\x% Senate office 
of the official telegraph, established 1873 by G. C. Maynard, under an act of 
Congress; connects the Capitol, the Government Printing Office, and Executive 
Departments, and all the isolated Government offices in the city. The wires 
are carried from the building across the Capitol grounds by means of a subter- 
ranean cable, in order not to mar tiie prospect. ( The Official Telephone office 
, is in corridor 22. 

24. The Eastern Corridor leads to the Eastern Grand Staircase (28,) Sen- 
ate Vestibule (30,) and Reception Room (34). 

25. Western Corridor, to Western Grand Staircase (51,) Senate Offices, and 
Lobby. The ceiling to the Lobby consists of barrel arches and lunettes, and 
paneled walls, the whole tinted and enriched with flowers in stucco. 

26 and 27. Senate Committee on Finance. — Without special decoration. 

28. Eastern Grand Staircase.— This leads to the La- 
dies', Senators' Family, and Diplomatic Galleries in the 
Attic Story. Is constructed of highly-polished Tennessee 
marble. The columns have bronze capitals. The ascent 
from the main floor is by a broad flight of 16 white marble 
steps, which divide at the first landing, the rest of the as- 
cent being by a double flight of 18 steps. Overhead is a 
stained-glass skylight, set in an iron frame, surrounded by 
an iron casing of trellis work, resting on a heavy cornice 
of marble. At the foot of the steps, in a niche, stands th. 
semi-heroic statue of Benjamin Franklin, of Pa., the philoso 
pher, marble, Hiram Powers, 1862, $10,000. Against tht 
E. wall, over the first landing, is the painting of Perry's 
Victory over the British near Put-in-Bay, Lake Erie, Sept. 
10, 1813, by W. H. Powell, of Ohio, 1873, cost $25,000. 

The painting represents the Commodore transferring his flag from the Law- 
rence, which had been disabled, to the Niagara. In the boat are the Commo- 
dore, with his little brother, and a crew of brave seamen. The perilous voy 



PRIMCirAL STORY. g<jr 

age lasted fifteen minutes, during which time the English commander concen-. 
trated his fire upon the party. When Perry hoisted his pennant on the Niagara 
the American fleet was inspired with fresh courage, and by a prompt movel 
ment broke the British line and won the day. Perry was but twenty-seven 
years of age when he gained this signal victory. The best view of this paint- 
mg IS from the balustrade at the top of the staircase. A double stairway^ 




TilH EASTERN GRAND STAIRCASE 

which unites at the first landing below, leads beneath the arched support and 
massive blocking of the upper staircase to the basement. These grand stair- 
cases, two in the Senate and two in corresponding positions in the House Ex- 
tensions of the Capitol, are among the most beautitul features of the Capitol. 
A full description of each will be found in its proper place. 



88 



CAPix'UL IM'Eiaul.. 



29Senate Bronze Door {Main entrance to the Senate wing), was 
put 111 place in 1868, executed by Thomas Crawford, 14^ ft. 
high, 9^ ft. wide, weighs 14,000 lbs, cast by James T. Ames, 
Chicopee, Mass., cost $6,000 for model, $50,494 for casting. 
The acanthus, cotton-boll, maize, grapes, entwining vine 
and cap, on elaborate brackets, enrich the frame. The his- 



torical subjects represented in alio relievo, are (See Key.) 





VI 



IV 





in 




SENATE BBONZE DOOB. 

Battle of Bunker Hill and Death of Warren, June, 1775. 

II. Battle of Monmouth, June, 1778, and Rebukofcf General Lee, who meditated 
betraying the American Army. 

III. Battle of Yorktown, October, 1781. Hamilton's Capture of the Redoubt. 

IV. Welcome of Washington at Trenton, April, 1789, on his way to New York 
to assume the office of President of the United States. This panel contains por- 
traits of the sculptor, his wife, and .three children, and of Rogers, the sculptor of 
the Main Door. 

V. Inauguration of Washington, First President of the United States, in New 
York, April jo, 1789. The principal figures inthis panel are portraits, including 
John Adams, Vice President, on his right; Chancellor Livingstone administers the 
oath; Mr. Otis, Secretary of the Senate, presented the Bible. The other distinguished 
personages represented are Alexander Hamilton, Generals Knox and St. Clair, Roger 
Sherman, and Baron Steuben. 

VI Laying of the Corner-stone of the Capitol of the United States at Washing- 
fon, September 18, 1793. The prominent figures are likenesses. 

The oratr to Mr. Crawford contemplated t)»o doors, one for the E. Portico 
of each wing. The sculptor had proceeded no further than to complete th# 
drawing of his designs and the work of his models in clay, when he was over 
taken by death. The work, however, was compIeteG oy W. H. K.hineh=-rt, of 
Maryland, an as.sistant in the studio of the sculptor at Rome. Ihe :.Aodels 
were shipped to the United States in 1863. They- were somewhat dam^^^psd in 



PHirs'OlPAL toTUKY. 



89 



removal, but were restored by Silas Mosman, ot Massachusetts, under wnose 
superintendence they were cast. The mechanical execution of this work is 
considered in every respect equal to the great Door, and establishes the skill 
of American bronze founders in competition with those of Europe. 

Above the door, resting on a cap supported by massive 
brackets, are two reclining female figures, in American mar- 
ble by Crawford, representing Justice and History. 




THK GRAND CORRIDOR AND MAIN KNTRANCH TO THB SENAk (_HA.Mi.i.iv 

(^see INo. 23, p. 8o.j 

30. Senate Vestibule. — This door opens into a vestibule 
3onsisting of a colonnade of 16 fluted marble columns, 
with capitals of acanthus and tobacco leaves. The col- 
umns are disposed in couples, and equally divided on 
either side with corresponding pilasters. 

The ceiling is composed of massive blocks of highly-polished marble, form- 
ing panels, three of which are provided with stained glass. The walls tctq 
scagliola imitation of Sienna marble, and are broken at suitable intervals into 
niches, with bases of Tennessee marble. The floor is tesselated in white and 
blue marble. At the opposite end the door of bird's-eye maple, with bronze 
enrichments, anr set in a bronze frame, leads to the Senate Chamber. 

31. Official Repoi tars' Room, used by the repo-rters of the debates and 
proceedings of the Senate. The ceiling is frescoed in the Pompeian style. 

32. Senate Post OfB.ce. — This beautiful apartment is 



90 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

fitted with polished maple cases aud other conveniences 
for the Senate mails. This room was originally intended 
for the Library of the Senate. 

I'hG vaulted ceiling IS embellished with frescoes by Brumidi, the principal 
pieces representing History, Geography, Physics, aud the Telegraph. Three 
allegorical figures support a tasteful centre-piece, from which drops a chande- 
lier. The walls are finished in oil and gilt. 

33. The Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms of the Sen- 
ate. — On the walls are allegories of Secession and Peace. 

34. Senate Eeception Room.— The vestibule opens into the 
Senate Reception Boom, a brilliant salon about 60 ft. long, 
with a vaulted ceiling divided into two arches, that on the N. 
being groined, and is divided into four sections, in wliich are 
allegorical figures in fresco: N"., Liberty; S., Plenty; W., 
War ; E., Peace. The S. half of the ceiling consists of a cir- 
cular arch, broken by deep caissons, arranged in concentric 
circles. The fresco in the centre represents youthful figures 
in a vignette of clouds. Outside the chcle are allegorical fig- 
ures in fresco : NTE., Prudence; SE., Justice; SW., Temper- 
ance ; N'W., Strength. All these frescoes were executed by 
Brumidi, in 1856. The ceiling is heavily gilded throughout, 
and from it is suspended a fine chandelier. The walls are 
finished in tint, and enriched with stucco and gilt. They are 
divided into five panels, with medallion centres for portraits 
of illustrious citizens. Each medallion is surrounded by 
wreaths, and is surmounted by an eagle. The base of the 
walls is scagliola, in imitation of Potomac and Tennessee 
marbles. Under the arch in the S. wall is a well-executed 
centre-piece in oil, by Brumidi, representing Washington in 
consultation with Jefiferson, his Secretary of State, and Ham- 
ilton, Secretary of the Treasury. On either side is a medal- 
lion yet unfilled. In the N. wall of this magnificent apart- 
ment, between the windows, is a mirror. The floor is of 
encaustic tiles, finely laid, and with a beautifully-wrought 
star as a centre-piece. The room is furnished in rosewood^ 
with damask and lace curtains. In winter the floor is richly 
carpeted. The mantel is a beautiful specimen of workman- 
siiip. 

35. Bronze Staircases, formed of entwining vines andf oliage, 
relieved with eagles, deer, and cupids. A similar staircase 
occupies a corresponding placo^n the W. side of the lobby. 
These, including two connectii^ with the lobby of the Hall 
of Representatives in the S. Extension, cost nearly $22,500. 
They are elaborate and artistic specimens of bronze work, 
and in a part of the building too dark to enable tlieir merits 
to be fully appreciated. They wer<^ manufactured by Archer, 
Warner & Miskey, of Philadelphia Baudin, artist, 1858-'59. 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



91 



36. Vice President's Eoom.— The door on the r. within the 
Lobby opens into the room of the President of the Senate, 
generally known as the Vice President's Room. It Is a well- 
furnished apartment, with plain stuccoed ceilings and tinted 
walls. In this room is the orig-inal of Remhrandt Peale's 
painting of Washington, from life, purchased by the Senate 
in 1832 for $2 000. 




37. isenate Lobby.— During the sessions of the Senate, admissions to the 
Lobby c^n only be obtained through a Senator. When the Senate is not in ses- 
sion the Lobby is open to the public. The Lobbv is a vaulted passage, with gilt 
panels and cornice. Two doors lead to the floor of the chamber, and opposite, 
two doors into the "marble room." 

38. The Senate Chamber.— This magnificent apartment, 
first occupied by the Senate January 4, 1859, is in the N. ex- 



i)2 



CAPITOL INTERIOR. 



tension — has entrances from the corridors on the E„ S., and 
W., and two from the lobby on the N. Length, 113} ft; 
width, 80f ft; height, 36 ft. ; area of floor, 9,136 sq. ft. The 
Chamber proper is 83 ft. long and 51 ft. wide. On the E., 
W., and S. sides are the cloak rooms for Senators, and on the 
N. the lobby. Over these are the galleries, with seats for 
1200 persons, rising and receding in tiers to the corridors 
of the second floor. 

The JV. Gallery above the chair of the President of the Senate, is devoted to 
reporters of the press, yN\X.\\ ifi d.%^'^,2s\.6. seats for as many more. Opposite 
the reporters' is the diplomatic gallery. The galleries on the E. are devoted 
exclusively to ladies and gentlemen accompanying them ; a portion for the ex- 
clusive use of xh?-. families of Senators. Those on the W. are for gentletnen. 
For plan of galleries see Diagram attic story, i^ to 21. 

The Desks of the Senators, two for each State, are arranged in concentric 
semi-circles, and made of the richest mahogany. Some are almost as old as the 
Senate itself. The President's "chair" occupies a raised dais, also of mahog- 
any. The gavel rests on the desk in front. The Secretary of the Senate, Leg- 
islative, Chief and Minute Clerks, beginning on the President's left, occupy the 
desk in front, and the two official reporters immediately in front of them. The 
Sergeaut-at-arms on the left, and Door-keeper on the right of the chair, sit at 
the foot of the dais. 

T\\.e floor is raised about 3 in. for each semicircle of desks, and is pierced by 
numerous registers. These are fed from an air-chamber beneath the floor, 
and supplied by fans and steam-coils in the basement with moistened air tem- 
pered from 68° to 70° winter, from 8° to 10° below the outside air in summer, 
and regulated by thermometers and hygrometers in different parts of the cham- 
ber, under the chief of the ventilating department. The contaminated air passes 
through the trellis work in the ceiling. (See Ventilating Departtnetit ,\>9L^e 113.) 

The ceili7ig cons\?,X.s of immense iron girders amd transverse pieces, forming 
deep panels, glazed each with a centre-piece symbolic of the Union, the Army 
and Navy, Progress, and the Mechanical Arts. The outer row, with trellised 
centres, are for ventilation, and outside of these are deep caissons and cir- 
cles, with a star in each. The frame rests on a heavy iron cornice. The iron 
worlc thi oughout is bronzed with gilt decorations. The -walls are richly painted, 
those supporting the galleries being laid off in panels. The back of the galle- 
ries are pierced by doors on each side. The doors are of bird's-eye maple, elab- 
orately finished with foliated bronze ornaments. Niches for statuary are also 
sunk in the walls. The iron ivork was done by Janes, Beebe & Co. 

The hall by day is lighted through the paneled ceiling by means of the skylight 
5n the roof At night innumerable jets, ranged above the ceiling around the glass 
panels, and supplied with gas and ignited by electricity, diffuse a soft light 
throughout the Chamber. 

The public are permitted on the floor of the Chamber 
when the Senate is not in session. The regular hour of 
meeting is 12 noon every day except Sunday, but the time 
can be changed and sessions fixed and adjournments or- 
dered on its own motion. The persons entitled to the 
privileges of the floor are designated by resolution of the 
Senate. 



CAPITOL INTERIOR. 



93 



39. Cloak Eooms.— Beneath the E., W., and S. galleries 
are cloak rooms for tlie exclusive use of Senators. 




TUB " MARBLB OR SENATOIU) RBTIKING ROOM. 

40. Marble Eoom. — From the lobby pass through a small 
passage or vestibule into the Marble or Senate Retiring Room. 
This elegant apartment is 38 ft. long, 21 J ft. wide, and 19 J ft. 
high. The ceiling rests upon 4 Corinthian columns of Italian 
marble, and consists of massive polished blocks of white mar- 
ble, forming deep panels. The walls throughout are of highly- 
polished Tennessee marble. In the panels of tlie walls are 
large plate-glass mirrors. Those at the ends produce a striking 
eifect. In the E. and W. walls are niches. Two of these 
contain heads of Indian chiefs, executed in marble. The floor? 
are of encaustic tiles. The room is handsomely furnished, 
and, without question, is the finest apartment of the kind in 
the world. In the E. vestibule is a small bronze bust of 
Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, 1861-1865, 
presented by Albert De Groot, of New York. 



94 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



41, President's Eoom.— Leaving the lobby by the W. door, 
on the r. is the Presidenfs i?oow," assigned to the use of the 
President of the United States on his visits to the Capitol. 
This room is rarely ased except on the last days of the session 
of Congress, when the President, with his secretaries and 
Cabinet ministers, assemble the.e to expedite the business of 
legislation, the President signing such bills passed by the 
Senate and House of Representatives as meet his approval. 




TRR president's room. 



This aMriment, decorated by Brumidi, in general design is after the pnvatt 
audience chamber of the Vatican at Rome. The walls are in oil. Theyf^«r« 
in medallion represent the first President and his cabinet. The small copper- 
colored medallions represent the Arms of the SlaUsm the Union when painted. 
The groined arches over head represent in fresco, Christopher Columbus (Uis- 
coveA:), from a painting in Mexico, Americus F^.y/^.«W (Exploration) from a 
painting in Florence, William Brewster (Religion), Benjamz^z Franklin (His- 
torv) The intermediate allegorical pieces represent Relzgiozi, Lzberty, ^^gisla- 
Hem, and Executive. The design around the rich chandelier and general finish 
throughout, are very fine. The whole decoration is enriched with arabesques, 
(^ad is laid on a ground-work of gilt. The room is luxun'MiSiy. *"«'"«-- ^-^rf 



CAPITOL INTERIOK. 95 

42. Senate Oommittee on Enrolled Bills 

43. Closets. 

44. Senate Oommittee on Appropriations.— Tinted walls. 

45. Elevator. — for the use of Senators, runs from the basement to the attic 
story, and is fitted up with a screw and double engine : cost $10,000. 

46 to 50. Offices of the Senate.— 46. Engrossing and enrolling, 47. Chief 
and 48. Executive clerks. 49. Secretary of the Senate. 50. Financial clerk. 

51. Western Grand Staircase.— Of white marble, leads 
to the gentlemen's galleries. The highly polished entabla- 
tures, steps, balustrades, columns and capitals viewed from 
the landing leading to the basement, strike the eye with its 
magnificence. The design and dimensions are the same 
as the eastern staircase. See page 87- 

At the foot of the staircase, in a niche, is the statue of yokn Hancock, Presi- 
dent of the Continental Congress, which signed and promulgated the Declara- 
tion of Independence, 1776; semi-heroic ; executed in i860, in marble, by Ho- 
ratio Stone; cost $5,500. 

Against the west wall is the painting of the Stor7}ting of ChafiuUepec , S&t^X.. 
13, 1847, by the American Army, under Gen. Scott, by James Walker, N. Y., 
from sketches in the field ; ordered i860 ; cost $6,000. The castle, one of the 
defenses of the city of Mexico, crowned an eminence 900 ft. high, and was taken 
by means of scaling ladders. General Quitman and several of the officers of the 
advance division are in consultation. The batteries at the foot of the hill were 
taken, and the approach to the city by the aqueduct lay open. The hillside 
is already occupied by the United States rifles. Gen. Qpitman, mounted, 
appears on the 1. of the painting. Gen. Shields is without his coat, and 
wounded. Near at hand are Lieuts. Wilcox and Towers, of the engineers. 
On the 1. stands a section of Drum's battery. In the rear, advancing 
to the support of Casey's troops, are the Pennsylvania, New York, and South 
Carolina volunteers, bearing their State colors, and commanded by Geary, 
Baxter, and Gladden. Xicontenca, the Mexican commander, is killed. Gen. 
Persifor F. Smith, with the rifles, confronts the enemy's breastworks, and 
points to the retreating Mexicans, who are fleeing by the aqueduct. 

CENTRAL BUILDING— SOUTH WING. 

52. South Door of Rotunda, leading to the National Statuary Halla.n<d 
Hoiise of Representatives. 

53. Vestibule, crowned by a dome and cupola, and modeled from a Greek 
temple. The capitals of the columns are ornamented with the leaf of the cot- 
ton plant, instead of the acanthus. The flower of the cotton plant also enriches 
the centre of the caissons. This vestibule corresponds with that on the N. side. 
The door on the 1, leads to the basement staircase, (19,) very beautiful in 
design. 

54 and 55. Document Room, House of Representatives. — These are for 
the supply of bills and documents for the current use of members of the House. 

56. Stationery Room of the House of Representatives. 

57. House Committee on Banking and Currency. — When representa- 
tives occupied the old Hall, now the Hall of Statuary, this room was set apart 
for the use of the Speaker. It was to this room that John Quincy Adams was 
conveyed after he fell at his seat in the House, February 23, 1848, and it was 
here that he died, two days after. A marble console on the west wall support! 
an excellent bust of Adams, by J. C. King, 1845, $ ■ , placed L«re in e<«f 
«neinora.tinii of this «ad event. 



CAPITUL INTEKl UH. 




THE HALL OF STATUES. 

58. National Statuay ^i.u — ..i.s mao-niticent Hall, for- 
merly used as the place of meeting of the House of Eepre- 
seutatives, is Grecian in design, having been planned and 
adapted, by Latrobe, after the remains of the Theatre at Ath- 
ens. It consists of a semi-chcle of 98 ft. chord. The ends 
of the prostyle and peristjde are separated by a wide project- 
ing sm-face of freestone, which rises to the top of the order 
and supports a segment arch, which corresponds with the 
segment of the vaulted ceiling that crowns the hall and ends 
against it. To the top of the entablature biocldng is 35 ft., 
and to the apex of the domed ceiling 57 ft. The semi-peri- 





noULHtN b 



CAPITOL INTERIOR. 



97 



style or circular colonnade on the N. is composed of 14 columns and 2 antae, 
of the Corinthian order; the shafts of solid blocks of variegated marble or brec- 
cia, were quarried from the banks of the Potomac, above the city, i he bases 
are fre«-stone. The capitals are of Carrara marble, executed in Italy and de- 
signed after those in the temple of Jupiter Stator at Rome— Hadfield says attet 
th% capitals of the Lantern of Demos at Athens. The entablature is of the pro- 




Green, Williams, Trumbull, Sherman, Clinton 

portions used in the ^ham- temple, ornamented with dentils and modillons, 
enriched with leaves and roses. The fioor is of marble. A paneled dome 
springs overhead. The apex of the dome, is pierced by a circular aperture, 
crowned by a lantern, serving the double purpose of light and ventilation. The 
dome is similar to that of the Pantheon at Rome^^^ On the S. side of the hall, 
forming the loggia, are 8 columns and 2 antse of jhe same style as the peristyle. 
Over the entablature of this colonnade springs a beautiful 72 ft. chord. On the 




Livingston, Winthrop, Adams, Allen, King. 

blocking of the cornice beneath is ^figure of Libertv, in plaster, by Caucici 
a pupil ot Lanova 1829, originally intended for execution in marble The 
hgure, seen from the galleries in front, produces a striking eflFect. On the r is 
the frustrum of a column, around which a serpent, the emblem of wisdom, is 4n. 
twining itself, and at the feet of the.figure is an American eagle. In t!o.& frieze 
of the entablature, under this figure, is sculptured an eagle in stone, with out 
spread wings, the work of Valaperti. Over the N. door stands a clock in m^ 



I Je, by Chas. Franzoni, 1819. History, her drapery floating in the air, is rep 
resented as standing in the winged car of Time and recording passing eventv. 
The car is placed on a globe, on which, in basso relievo, are cut the signs of 
the zodiac. The hours are marked on the face of the wheel of the car. 

The hall affords some acowsii^ 'phenomena, also in the west 
column near the south door, can be distinguished human 
faces, all will be explained gratis by the attendant. 

When the Hall was occupied, the Speaker^ s chair stood on the S. side, upon 
an open rostrum about four feet above the floor, enclosed by a bronze balustrade. 
Rich crimson curtains fell in elegant folds from the capitals of the columns, 
and were separated so as to form luxurious draperies as a backgronnd to the 
chair and rostrum. Below and in front of the Speaker's rostrum stood the 
Clerk's desk, raised on a variegated socle. Upon this stood a rich mahogany 
table, with damask silk curtains. Between the columns were sofas and accom- 
modations for twenty reporters. The members' desks of mahogany, with arm 
chairs, were arranged in concentric circles, for 232 members, the aisles forming 
radii from the centre. In the rear of the outer row of desks was a bronzed iron 
railing with curtains, constituting the bar of the House. Outside of this was 
the lobby. The gallery over the loggia was set apart for the ladies, having 
cushioned seats for the accommodation of 200 persons ; the general gallery 
■would seat 500. The panels on either side of the ladies' gallery contained 
full-length portraits of Washington by Vanderlyn, and Lafayette by Ary Schef- 
fer, a present from the distinguished Frenchman upon his last visit to the 
United States. Under-these were copies of the Declaration of Independence, 
.in frames emblematically ornamented. At night the Hall was hghted by "solar 
gas" from a chandelier at the apex of the dome. This Hall was occupied by 
Congress for 32 years. During ehe first days of the Rebellion, 1861-65, troops 
were quartered in it. In 1862 it was used as a hospital for the sick and wounded 
of the army, and in 1864, by act of Congress, was set iapart for its present 
appropriate purpose. 

THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF STATUES. 

The House of Representatives having taken possession 
of its new quarters in the Capitol in 1857, the " old" Hall 
fell into neglect. In 1864, Congress, desirous of perpetuat- 
ing its historic associations, authorized the President of the 

United States to invite each State to furnish statues, in marble or bronze, not 
exceeding two in number for each State, of deceased persons who had been 
citizens thereof and illustrious for their historic renown, or for distinguished 
civic or military service, as the States determined worthy of national commem- 
oration, when so furnished to be placed in the old Hall of the House of Repre- 
sentatives, in the Capitol of the United States, which was set apart for a Nation- 
al Statuary Halt. 

The State contributions are given in the order received 
by the government. 

Rhode Island. — 1871. Nathaniel Greene^ marble, life-size, H. K. Brown, 
.869, attired in full regimentals of a Major-General in the Continental army, re- 
presented as pledging the service of his sword to his country. 

Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, and promoter of civil and re- 
ligious liberty in America; marble, life-size, Franklin Simmons, 1870, robed in 
the dress of the early colonist. T\i& pedestals are of Rhode Island red granite. 

Connecticut. — 1872. Jonathan Tru^nbull, an eminent patriot of the Rev- 
olution, and from whom the term " Brother Jonathan" originated on account 
of his skill in expedients to meet the necessities of the Continental Govern- 
ment. Marble, heroic, G. B. Ives, 1869. 

Roger ^herman^ one of the committee to draft the Declaration of Indepen- 
dence. Marble, heroic, C. B. Ives, 1870; represented in Ct<'»'inental civil attire 
♦'be Pedestals are of Vermont marble. 



iNe-w York. — 1873. George Clinton, a signer of the Declaration of Indepen 
dence, General of the Revolution Governor ot New York and Vice President of 

■id States. Bronze, life-size, H. K. Brown, 1873. Robert Wood & 
la., founders ; represented in Continental military dress. 
A". Livingston, First Chancellor of New York, who administered the 
6ice to George Washington upon his inauguration as President of the 
tates, March, 1789. Bronze, life-size, E. D. Palmer, 1874. Barbe- 
dienne, Paris, founders, represented in the chancellor's robes, and holding by his 
side the treaty for the cession of Louisiana by France to the United States, 
which he successfully consummated. The robe and lace work is artistic. 

Massachusetts.— 1876. John Winthrop^ first Governor of Massachusetts, 
landing with the charter of 1630. Marble, serai-heroic, Richard S. Greenough, 
1875, represented in the costume of the limes. 

Samuel Adams, an early advocate of liberty. Marble, semi-heroic, Anne 
Whitney, 1876, represented in colonial dress and protesting to the Royal Gov- 
ernor against the presence of British troops, using the memorable words : 
" Night is approaching, an immediate answer is expected, both regiments or 
none." March 6, 1770. 

Vermont. — 1876 £tha?t Allen Marble, heroic, L C.Mead, 1875, represented 
in the uniform of a Continental officer, with drawn sword and flashing eye, de- 
manding the surrender of Ticonderoga in the name of" the Great Jehovah and 
the Continental Congress." 

yacob Collamer, 1S80, a forcible orator on constitutional questions, Post- 
master-General, 1849, ^n^i Senator of the United States, 1855-64. Marble semi- 
heroic, Preston Powers, 1879. Represented in the costume of the times, 
addressing the Senate, left hand resting on a pedestal bearing the State anus. 

Maine. — William King, 1880, an early advocate of the separation of Maine 
and Vlassachusetts in 1819, and first Governor of Maine, 1820. Marble semi- 
heroic, Franklin Simmons, 1877. Represented in top boots and Spanish cloak, 
and holds in his hand a roil of parchment, the Constitution of the State. 



In addition to tnese btate contributions the Hall contains a plaster copy of 
the statue of George Washington, at Richmond, life-size, by Houdon, 1788, re- 
presenting the father of his country in civic attire, with a staff in his hand, his 
cioak and sword resting on a bundle of lictors' rods, and with a rude plow in 
the rear; the superb semi-heroic statues of Alexander Haiiiilton, marbl<s, by 
Horatio Stone, 1868, $10,000 ; the first Secretary of the Treasury. General 
E. D. Baker, killed in the rebellion. Marble, by Horatio Stone, 1875, $10,000 ; 
representing him as a Senator of the United States ; and Thomas jeffet-son, 
bronze, by the celebrated French sculptor, P. T. David D'Angers, 1833, Fondu 
a Paris, par Honore Conon et ses deux Fils ; representing the author of the 
Declaration as just having signed that instrument of American liberty ; the 
statue was presented by Uriah Phillips Levy, of theU. S. N., 1833, but was 
not accepted until 1874. 'Y\\ii. pedestal is a superb piece of work, in four vari- 
eties of marble, executed by Struthers, of Philadelphia. The other works are 
a statue of Abraham iL/«C(3/«, marble, Vinnie Ream, 1866, $15,000; busts 
of Abraham Z,zw<rcj/«, marble, Mrs. Sarah Fisher Ames, 1868, $2,000; 7". 
Kosciuszko, marble, H. D. Saunders, 1857, $500 ; and Thomas Cra-'v/ord, 
scuiptc" by h''nse!f 

Of the few paintings are a Washington, by Gilbert Stuart, 1796, painted from 
life for the Chesttnut family of South Carolina, purchased 1875, $i,'-'.oo; and two 
portraits oi Benjamin H^gj^', of Pennsylvania, President ot the Royal Academy 

of Fine Arts, London, painted by himself, 1810,$ ; Gunning Bedford,^ 

signer of the Declaration of Independence, presented ; Charles Carroll, ot 

Cirrollton, by Chester Harding, 18—, $ ; and yoshua Giddings,Miss 

Ransom, 18— ; a mosaic of Abraham Lincoht, by Salviati. of Venice, a man- 
ufacturer. 

59. Corridor, connectino- the S. wiu^ of the centre or old 



100 PRINCIPAL STORY. 

building with tlie S. Extension, occupied by the House of 
Repfesentatives. This is the same as No. 22. Opposite is 
the main door to the floor of the House of Representatives. 

SOUTH, OR HOUSE EXTENSION. 

This portion of the building corresponds, in its general fea- 
tures, with the Senate Extension, the larger size of the Hall 
of Representatives causing simply a narrowing of the outer 
corridors. 

60. Northern Corridor, beautifully designed, especially the ceiling, which 
Is diversified with lunettes and circular and groined arches. 

61. Eastern Corridor, leading to the Eastern Grand Staircase and House 
Lobby. At the S. end of this corridor is the office of the Government telegraph, 
connected, by means of wires under the building, with the office and subterran- 
ean cable in the N. Extension. (See No. 23.) 

62. Western Corridor, leading to the Western Grand Staircase and the 
offices and Lobby of the House. 

63. House Committee on Military Affairs. — Here is a series of seventeen 
paintings, exccutea in iSyo-'yi, by Lieut-Col. Seth Eastman, a retired officer 
of the U. S. A., representing some of the principal forts of the United States, 
the Military Academy at West Point, and Fort Sumpter before and after the 
bombardment. A case of breech-loading arms used in the army stands against 
the west wall. 

64. Eastern Grand Staircase, leading to t\ie galleries. (For their divi- 
sion, see Plan 0/ kttic story, Nos. 50 to 55.) The staircase is of Tennessee 
marble, bronze capitals and white marble steps, and in every particular of de- 
sign, measurement, and execution similar to that in the same position in the 
Senate Extension. In the niche at the foot is the superb Statue of Jefferson^ 
by Hiram Powers, 1863 ; cost $10,000, executed in Italy. Against the E. wall, 
IS the painting of President Lincoln signing the Proclamation of Emancipa- 
tion of the negroes, Sept. 22, 1862, by Frank P. Carpenter, cost $25,000; pre« 
sented to the United States, by Mary Elizabeth Thompson, Feb. 12, 1878. \Se» 
engraving, grand staircase, page 87. 

_ 65. Main Door. — This very prominent entrance is still without the embel 
lishments of art. Mr. Crawford, the designer of the bronze door of the N. 
Extension, at the same time received an order for one for the S. The death of 
the sculptor, who had already completed the designs, prevented the execution 
of work on the second door. The models, however, were completed by his 
pupil, Rhinehart, for which the latter received ^9,000, but have been since their 
completion stowed away in a dark vault, near the Undercroft. The door will 
represent scenes in the life of Washington. 

66. Vestibule. — This beautiful vestibule consists of 8 fluted columns in 
couples, two on either side. The capitals are enriched with leaves of acanthus, 
tobacco and corn. The ceilings are paneled, and the walls tinted and broken 
by 8 niches, with Tennessee marble bases. 

67. House Committee on Ways and Means. — A fine department, richly 
decorated in the renaissance style, diversified with American shields, foliage 
birds and fruit. 

68. House Committee on Appropriations. — Room decorated and pan- 
eled in distemper and encaustic by Strieby,i873. The fruit pieces and repre- 
sentation of moulding are particularly well executed. The door near by leads 
to a vestibule which opens into the House Lobby. The bronze staircase (35) 
is the same as those adjacent so the Senate Lobby. 

69. Reporters of Debates. — This room was originally used as the Mem- 
bers' Reception Room. The walls are tinted, and the groined arches overhead 
are decorated in arabesque in fresco. 

JO. Lobby of the House of Representatives. — The lobby., which may 
be entered in company with a member during the sessions of the House, has 
an iron-paneled ceiling, highly enriched in oil, the decoration being that in 
vo£:ue during the isth century. On the r. are doors opening into the Hall. 



PRINCIPAL STORY. 



101 



71. Hall of the Representatives.— ("House of Represen- 
tatives")— The dimensions of this superb legislative hall 
the finest in the world, are : length, 139 ft.; width, 93 ft • 
height, 36 ft. The floor is 115 feet by 67 feet. The gallenes 
will seat about 2,500 persons. Beneath these, against the N., 




E.,and W. walls, are cloak and retiring rooms, and back of the 
Speaker's chair the lobby. 

Upon the floor are desks for the Representatives and Delegates, arranged in 
concentric semi-circlee. The Speaker's ''desk''' is raised about 3 ft. from the 
floor. In front are desks for the clerks of the House, and still in front desks for 
the official reporters. The whole is made of white marble, with a base of Ten- 
nessee, and is exjremely beautiful. The clock marks the morning hour, and 
limit of debate. East of the Spe.iker, on a pedestal of Vermont marble, stands 
the mace or insignia 0/ authority, when the House is in session. When not, it 
rnay be seen in the room of the Sergeant-at-Arms. It consists of a bundle of 
lictor's rods, bound together by silver ligatures, and surmounted by a silver 



102 PRINCIPAL STORY. 

tcrrestial globe, crowned by the American eagle. On the left of the chair is a 
full length portrait of lVashin£;ton, by Vanderlyn, 1834, and on the right one of 
the Marguis de Lafayette, by Ary SchefFer, 1822, the celebrated French artist; 
was presented to Congress by Lafayette upon his last visit. In the W. panel of 
the S. wall is a yr«c<? by Brumidi, representing Washington at Yorktown re- 
ceiving the officers sent by Cornwallis to ask two days' cessation of hostilities, 
and in place of which two hours were granted. Over the N. door is a clocks 
surmounted by an eagle, and supported on either side by figures of an Indian 
and hunter. In the panels east and west of the S. doors are two paintings by 
A. Bierstadt, $10,000 each, respectively representing the Settlement of Cali- 
fornia about 1769, in the name of Spain, purchased 1878, and the Discovery 
of the Hudson River by Henry Hudson, 1609, purchased 1875, representing tha 
great navigator landing, and groups of Indians and birch canoes 

The ceiling of the Hall is of cast iron, paneled, painted and gilded, and highly 
enriched with gilt moldings, and supported on a decorated cornice. The Panels 
are filled with glass with stained centre pieces, representing the arms of the 
States. There are two outer rows of panels, that nearest the wall of open work, 
with massive pendants in the centre. Above the ceiling is the illuminating 
loft, with 1,500 gas gets lighted by electricity during night sessions. Here also 
is the truss work of the ceiling and roof For heating and ventilating , page 114 
During a recess or adjournment of the House visitors can enter upon the floor 
The doors in the lobby are generally open. When the House, which meets at 
12 noon, is in session, the rules designate who are allowed the privileges qftht 
72. Hall Library, for the use of members in debate. 
73 and 74. Cloak Rooms. 
75. Key and Store-Room. 

76 to 78. Representatives' Retiring Room.— The pilasters, cornice, and 
ceiling are of iron, enriched with gilt. In the centre panel, overhead, is a 
massive representation of a cluster of acorns. On the walls hangs a gallery 
of crayon portraits of the Speakers of the House of Representatives since the 
first organization of the body, by Louis Wieser, Washington, D. C, $50 each. 
Each State is in7'ited to contribute oi\ paintings of the Speakers elt-cted from 
their Representatives Connecticut has already furnished Jonathan Trumbull, 
by H. J. Thompson, 1880. The mirrors, hangings of the curtains, and furni- 
ture, are all in keeping. 

79. Closets. 

80. Room of the Speaker of the House of Representatives. 

St to 83. Offices of the House of Representatives. — 81. Sergeant-at- 
Arms. 82. Engrossing and Enrolling Clerks. 83. Journal and Printing Clerks. 

84. Western Grand Staircase.— Same in material and 
construction as that on east. See Engraving, p. 87. 

In the niche at the foot is a bust of Bee-she-kee the Buffalo, a warrior of the 
Chippewas of the Upper Mississippi, by F. Vincenti, 1854, bronze by Joseph 

LasaJle, 1858. 

Over the first landing is Westward Ho, a chromo silica 
by -Emanuel Leutze, 1862, $20,000. 

This represents an emigrant train crossing the Rocky mountains. Below 
is The Goldett Gate, harbor of San Francisco, by A. Bierstadt. In the 
ornamental border north is a medallion of Daniel Boone and south Captaif 
William Clarke, both early pioneers. 

85, 86. Committee on Naval Affairs. — The^^^rj of both extensions are 
laid in encaustic tiles of beautiful design, c c c c courts. 

ATTIC STORY. 

I, 2. Store Rooms of the Congressional Library. 

CENTRAL BUILDING, NORTH WING. 

3. Steps to the Dome and Electrician's Room. — See No. 11 principal 
story to the dome. The steps to the right lead to 

4. Electric Battery Room, containing the <5az'/'^r?>i- for lighting the capitol 



ATTIC STORY. 

5. Electrician's Office. — The oflScer will explain the working of the app»> 
e Capitol by electricity was begun in 1865. The 



ratus. T\i^ lighting of th 

gats is from the mains of the city 



See No. 9, Principal Story. 




THE RETIKING KOUM OF THE KEPKHSENTATIVEi. (bce i\U. 7O-70, p. lu^.; 

6, 7. and 8. Library of the Senate (reached from 21 Principal Stcry, o/>en 
every day . This embraces a collection of official documents printed by order 
of either House ol Congress, the journals, debates, and proceedings of each; 
statutes ; U.S. Supreme Court reports; law books ; special works of reference 
relating to legislation, and files of newspapers.' The library occupies the adja- 
ceni lolls, and in the aggregate comprises 25,000 vols. It is designed for the ex- 
clusive use of Sen;aors. 

NORTH OR SENATE EXTENSION. 



9, II, 12, and 13, Senate Document Room, reached from 16. Attic Story, 
contains files and extra copies of all bills, laws, reports, and other official docu- 
ments printed by order of Congress, or either branch, and for the current sup- 
ply of Senators. 

[10. Senate Committee on Civil Service.] 

14. Eastern Grand Staircase. — For Description see 28 Prin- 



ATTIC .-^TOllY 




Si 
If 

2 § 



!aE113Hai-lElBI?IEl 



ATTIC STORY. 



lurj 



cipai story. 

Galleries will seat 1,200 persons. — 15. Ladies ; 17- Reserved ; 18. Diplo- 
matic ; 19. Gentletnen : 20. Press Reporters , with desks and seats for about 
60 representatives of the press; 21. Ladies. 16. Corridor. 22. Ladies' 
Retiring Room. 

23. Hall, richly stuccoed in emblematical figures. Here are the paintings 
of the Grand Canon of the Yellowstone and Chasm of the Colorado, by 
Thomas Moran, Pa., purchased respectively 187^ and 1874, ^10,000 each. 

24. Ante Room beautilully enriched in stucco. Exclusively /or ladies. 

25. Senate Committees on Private Land Claims; 26. Claims; 27. 
Revolutionary Claims; 28. Eastern Corridor; 29, 30. Com. on Print- 
ing; 31. Western Corridor; 32 Western Grand Staircase, see 51 /"r/w- 
cipal Story, page 87. 33, 34. Sen. Com. Public Buildings and Grounds. 




'house." (See No. 60, p. 10 



OKAND COKKIDOR AND MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE 

35. To tne iUuminatmg Lott. 

36. Senate Committee on Transportation. — Entered through 37. 

37. Senate Committee on Pacific Railroads. — Tinted walls, and with 
out decoration. 

38. Senate Committee on Privileges and Elections. 

39. Elevator for use of Senators. {?>(iv Principal Story, 4^.) 

40. Senate Committee on Commerce. — A fine apartment, without deco 
ration. 

41. Senate Committee on Mines and Mining. — A small room, without 
special attraction. 

42. Ante Room opening into No. 43 and Gentle?nen''s Galleries. 

43. Press Reporters' Retiring Room.— A fine apartment, furnished for 
the use of members of the press entitled to the privileges of the gallery. There 
is also a branch telegraph office for the convenience of the press during th* 
sessions of Congress. 



106 ATTIC STORY. 

MAIN BUILDING -SOUTH WING. 

44. Store Room for House Library. — Entered by the door in the gallery 
over the north door of the Statuary Hall. 

45. Store Room connected with the document room of the House of Rep. 
resentatives. 

46. Store Room of House Library. The room south is used for the same 
purpose. 

SOUTH OR " HOUSE " EXTENSION. 

47. Eastern Grand Staircase. — See 64 Principal Story. The adjacent 
corridor leads to the Northern Corridor, Galleries, and I.Mdies' Retiring 
Rooms. 

48. Northern Corridor. — The ceiling presents an interesting combination 
of circular flanked by groined arches and lunettes richly embellished with em- 
blematic figures and arabesques in stucco. 

49. Library of the House of Representatives. — This is entered from 
the Northern Corridor. In this room are 15,000 volumes, though the entire 
library comprises 150,000 volumes, v/hich embraces the floor library of the 
House of Representatives {Principal Story, 72) and the libraries of commit- 
tees. Owing to want of suitable accommodation, the galleries outside the 
peristyle of the Hall of Statuary and 44 and 46 Attic Story, are used for the 
storage of books. It is proposed, after the erection of a building for the accom- 
modation of the Library of the United States, to assign the magnificent suit of 
library halls {Principal Story, j and 6) to the uses of the documentary libraries 
of the two Houses of Congress. 

50. Ladies' Galleries. — See No. 71 Principal Story ; also Diagrams, 

51. Reserved Galleries ior /dvtilies 0/ Metnbers of the House of Repre- 
sentatives. See No 71 Principal Story ; also Diagratns. 

52. Reserved Gallery for members of the Diplomatic Corps. See No. 71 
Principal Story ; also Diagratns. 

53. Press Reporters' Gallery, with desks and seats for about one hundred 
representatives of the press. 

54. Reserved Gallery, exclusively for Ladies. 

55. Gentlemen's Gallery. — See No. 71 Principal Story ; 2X^0 Diagrams, 
The House Galleries will seat about 2,500 persons. 

56. House Committee on Foreign Affairs. — No special attractions. 

57. House Committee on the Judiciary. — The room is tinted and en- 
riched with stucco. 

58. House Committee on Commerce — Walls simply tinted. 

59. House Committee on Public Lands — No special attractions. 

60 and 61. Ladies' Retiring Rooms. — Neatly and comfortably furnished 
and possessing every convenience. A 7natron is in constant attendance. 
These rooms are entered from the eastern corridor and gallery. 

62. Press Reporters' Retiring Room, (entered through 64 and 63 from 
the western corridor,) and for the use of those entitled to the privileges of the 
gallery. There are conveniences for writing dispatches. Adjoining is a small 
cloak-room. 

63. Press Telegraph Office {open during the sessions of Congress). 
Twenty-four wires leave the building by means of three ten-wire cables, and 
beyond the Capitol Grounds, S., connect with the lines for all parts of the 
United States. There are also ten wires leading under the building to the 
Senate Office^ and six wires to the connecting corridor, (59 Principal Story.) 

■ A switch enables the operators to form a connection with the lines to any part 
of the United States. 

64. Ante-Room leading from the western corridor to ^^ Press Telegraph 
Off ce and Reporters' Retiring Room. 

65. House Committee on Pacific Railroads and Revolutionary 
Claims. 

66. House Committee on Elections.— No attractions of special interest 
67. — House Committee on Railways and Canals.— No special decora 

tion. 
68. — House Committee on the District of Columbia. 



BASEMENT STORY. 107 

69 and 70. House Committees on the Militia and Mileage. 

71. 'Western Grand Staircase.— 5if<r 84, Principal Story. The adjacent 
corridor leads to the Northern Corridor, the Galleries,- Committee Koomu^ 
Press Telegraph Office^ and Reporters' Retiring Room. 

c. c. c. c— Courts. 

The floors of the attic story of the N. and S. extensions are laid with encaus- 
tic tiles of elegant design. 

BASEMENT STORY— SENATE EXTENSION. 

1. Western Stairway and Corridor.— The former as- 
cends to the principal story. The corridors of the Senate 
basement present an interesting exhibition of the decorative 
art. The vaulted ceilings throughout are in distemper, and 
all below the spring of the arches in oil. The walls and 
pilasters are in the style of the 15th century, as employed in 
the loggia of Raphael in the Vatican at Rome, with centre 
medallions of illustrious Americans, and introductions from 
the natural history of America. The ceilings are in the 
same style, with introductions of modern inventions and 
American landscape. The birds, animals, and reptiles are 
studies from the collection in the museum in the Smithson- 
ian Institution, drawn by Brumidi, and painted by Leslie. 
The decoration of the basement commenced in 1855. The 
medallions and finer parts are by Brumidi, while the de- 
tails are by others. 

The profiles in medallions of the panels represent prominent personages 
in the struggle for independence. At the N. end are the 12 signs of the 
Zodiac ; also landscapes of Day and Night. Over the door of the room 
of the Com. on Mil. Affairs is a spirited fresco representmg America ac- 
coutred for war, and surrounded by the implements of martial strife ; opposite 
the foot of the grand staircase, Las Casas, the early friend of the red man; 
over the door of the room of the Committee on Indian Affairs, Columbus land- 
ing and beholding the beauty of an Indian maiden, typical of the lands he had 
discovered, and opposite is Atnerica seated with drawn sword, reading from 
the Constitution and the laws on the one hand, with Justice standing on the 
other, all by Brumidi. 

2. Senate Committee on Revision of the Laws. — Tinted. 

3. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. — This room was originally in- 
tended for the use of the Committee on Agriculture. In the pilasters and bands 
are fruit pieces. Under the arches are typical groups of agricultural products 
and implements. In the groined ceiling is a centre-piece of grapes and leaves 
well executed. The general decoration consists of arabesques and gilt. The 
4 border pieces represent seasons and showers, flowers, grains, and fruits. The 
foliage is specially well executed. The ceiling is distemper and the walls oil ; 
executed by Castens, a German. 

4. Senate Heating and Ventilating Apparatus. — See Sub-basement 
Story. 

5. Senate Committee on the District of Columbia.— Tinted. 

6. Senate Committee on Library. — The vaulted ceding is adorned with 
fresco and gilt, and medallion pieces representing Sculpture, Astronomy, Ar- 
chitecture and Painting, The walls are laid out in a broad panel or border. 

7. Senate Committee on Military Affairs. — The ceilings are frescoed 
with victors' wreaths, shields, and other emblems of war. On the walls aad 
pilasters are representations of arms and armor of different periods, nations, 
and races, ancient and modern. The pilasters were painted by Leslie. The 
sword across the shield in the centre pilaster is a copy of the siuord 0/ IVash- 
ington. On the W. wall is a medallion head of Liberty, surrounded by flags 
and weapons of war. Under the arches are 5 historic subjects, in fresco, by 



108 



BASEMENT STORY. 




BASEMENT STORY. 109 

Brumidi ; 'H., Boston Massacre, ij-jo. 'a.. Battle of Lexington^ i775' N., 
Death of Wooster, during the British invasion of Connecticut, 1777. S., 
Washington at Valley Forge, 1778. The three prominent figures in the fore- 
ground are Washington, with Lafayette on his 1. and Gen. Green on r. E., 
Storming of Stony Point by Anthony Wayne, 1779. Wayne, wounded, is be- 
ing carried into the fort. 

8. Senate Committee on Naval Affairs. — The general design of decora- 
tion is Pontpeian, by Brumidi. 1'he principal features of the ceilings are fresco 
representations of marine gods and goddesses and an Indian female. Under 
the arches are representations of ancient porticoes with antique vessels. The 
walls, painted in oil, are divided into nine panels, with blue background and 
figures representing attributes of the navy as centre-pieces. The pilasters are 
scagliola, by French artists. 

9. Elevator. — (See Principal Story, No. 4^.) 

10. The Senate Committee on the Judiciary. — The wall decoration con- 
sists of figured panels and the vaulted ceiling, elaborate arabesques, varied by 
flower pieces and 4 medallions, each containing cherubs respectively bearing 
olive branches, fasces, quiver, and band with motto, E pluribus unum. 

11. Closets. 

12. Northern Corridor. — In the arch over the E. end are introductions of 
improved agricultural implements. In the demi-lunette over the door to the 
room of the Committee on Foreign Relations (No. 20) is a fresco representation 
of the signing of the provisional articles for treaty of peace between the United 
States and his Britannic Majesty, Nov. 30,1782, from an unfinished picture by 
Benjamin West, a copy of which was left by Senator Sumner, of Massachusetts. 
The fresco over the door of the room of the Committee on Territories (No. 13) 
represents the negotiation of the cession of Louisiana to the United States by 
France. In the pilasters are subjects from the natural history of America, and 
the medallion centres of the paneling of the walls contain profiles of Revolu- 
tionary heroes. At the W. end are some fine specimens of bird painting. 

13. Senate Committee on Territories. — Ceiling frescoed in arabesques, 
walls richly paneled. 

14. Bronze Staircase. — {^^^ No. 3s Principal Story.') 

15. Senate Stationery Room. — No decoration. 

16. Senate Committee on Agriculture. — No decoration. 

17. Main Corridor. — Near the N. door is richly frescoed overhead, but is 
unfinished. At the base of the spans are landscapes. In the medallions are 
profiles. The decoration of the ceilings of the broad corridor beyond is unfin- 
ished. In the pilasters are sketches of American landscape. The smaller 
halls beyond are enriched overhead with foliage, vines, and four American 
eatgles, and representations of banners and implements of war. 

18. Senate Committee on Contingent Expenses, 
ig. Superintendent Senate Folding Room. 

20. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.— On the ceiling, in dis- 
teniper, are four well-executed eagles, and under the arches, in oil, four medal- 
lions, containing profiles of chairmen of the committee : Clay N., Allen S., 
Cameron E., Sumner W. The walls are artistically paneled. The medallions 
are by Brumidi, and the rest of the room by Castens. 

21. Hall. — The decoration is varied with emblematic figures. The female 
figures denote peace and plenty. In the S. arch, overhead, are four pieces, re- 
presenting navigation, geography, the industrial arts, and science. In the N. 
band are mechanics and the agricultural products of the northern States, and 
S. band commerce and the products of the southern States. Over the door of 
the room of the Committee on Patents' "is a fine fresco of Robert Fulton of 
Pennsylvania, one of the first (1807) to apply steam to the purposes of naviga- 
tion. The likeness is from a portrait painted by Fulton himself, and now in 
the office of the Commissioner of Patents. Over the door of the room of the 
Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads is a fresco of Benjamin Franklin, 
the first Post Master General during the revolutionary days, and opposite is 
John Fitch, one of the earliest inventors of (1798) steam as applied .to naviga- 
tion. 

22. Senate Committee on Post Offices and Post lioads.'— Ceilings 
frescoed in arabesque — walls tinted. 



llO CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

23. Senate Committee on Patents. — Simply tinted. 

24. Eastern Entrance and Vestibule. — The doors open from an arcaded 
walk and vaulted carriageway beneath the Senate portico into a vestibule, in 
which are eight marble piers, four on each side, with sixteen corresponding 
marble pilasters. 'These piers and pilasters support the colonnade of the main 
vestibule above, and afford, perhaps, the most striking example of the durabil- 
ity and strength of the edi'fice. The arches are tinted and enriched with 
stucco. The walls are scagliola. 

25. Senate Committee on Pensions. — The ceiling is decorated in ara- 
besques in fresco, with four border medallions of flowers and fruits. Under the 
E. and W, arches are symbolic representations of the Constitution and Liberty, 
and N. and S. fruit pieces. 

26. Eastern Stairway and Corridor. 

27. Passage and Steps to Senate Folding Room.— (See No. 6.) 

28. Senate Committee on Public Lands. — Frescoed overhead with 
border and American shields and arabesques. The walls are paneled, with 
bases in scagliola. 

29. Senate Committee on Education and Labor, reached through No. 
28, is a small but chastely-decorated apartment. 

30. 31. Senate Refectory. — Open to the public. 

32. Inner Corridor. — In the bands of the arches are eagles clutching fasces 
and olive branches. The walls are paneled. In the pilasters are American 
shields and sketches from American natural history. The rooms on either side, 
except the Refectory, are used for storage. 

33. Senate Committee on Manufactures. 

34. Senate Committee on Rules. — No decoration. 

35. Connecting Corridor. — Ceiling distempered and gilt. 

MAIN BUILDING— NORTH WING. 

36. Corridor, from the Senate Extension to the Crypt. 

37> 38, 39. Conference Room of the Supreme Court of the United 
States. — ^1, Ante-Room ; 38, Conference Room ; 39, Conference Room Lu 
brary. 

40. Senate Baths, for the use of Senators. — Fitted up with marble baths 
and every convenience. There is also a water-cure apparatus and barber shop. 
41. Vestibule. — The arched substruction supports the Greek vestibule 
above. The door E. opens at foot of— 

42. Supreme Court Store Room and Files. 

43. Staircases to Principal Story. — There are two of these, one in each 
wing of the main building. The general architectural design of that on the S. is 
peculiarly attractive. The vestibule E. is ornamented with columns in imita- 
tion of cornstalks, suggested by JeflFerson. 

44. Law Library, {oyen every day, except Sunday, same as 
Library of the United States, entered from No. 43.) — This apart- 
ment is semi-circular, witli an arched recess towards the 
W., and a colonnade recess on the E., back of which are the 
only windows. An arcade passage runs around the sweep 
of the circle, supporting a domical ceiling of masonry, rest- 
ing on heavy Doric columns, covering the entire room. The 
ceiling is groined upon the surrounding arches. In the tym- 
panum of the W. arch, in the recess, is a plaster relief, by 
Franzoni, representing a figure of Justice, and by her side 
Fame, crowned with a rising sun and pointing to the Consti- 
tution of the United States. The columns and piers of the 
arches of this room are heavy Doric. Some alterations were 

made in the original design of this room, owing to the fall of the vaulted ceiling, 
. the result of defective construction. This led to the introduction of the columns, 



BASEMENT STORY. 



Ill 



which have added greatly to the appearance of solidity, and have materially 
strengthened that part of the building. The alcoves for the books are arranged 
on the W. The room in the NE of the main hall is devoted to works on For- 
eign Law, Legislation. The inner roo7n to Trials. The small room on the 
NW. IS set apart lor Foreign Law Commentaries. The room by the entrance 
door is used for storage. The Library is a branch of the Library of the United 
States and for the special use of the Supreme Court of the United States. 
See page 82 for Desrription and History 0/ Library. 




THE ROOM OF THK SENATE COMMITTEE ON MILITARY AFFAIRS. (See p. I07.) 

CENTRAL BUILDING. 
45. Crypt. — A circular space, consisting of a treble colon- 
nade, containing 40 Doric columns of the proportions of 
those of the Temple of Paestum, surmounted by groined 
arches running in radii direction, and supporting the floor 
of the Rotunda. The star in the pavement under the cen- 
tral arch denotes the exact centre of the Capitol. The 
grating in the pavement of the Crypt on the E. side leads 
to the vaulted passages below. The weight of the iron 
alone in the Dome is 8,009,200 lbs. 

46. Headquarters Capitol Police. 

47. Guard-Room, or Prison, for the temporary imprisonment of pencas 

48. Seeps to the 6ub-b -isemenc and Undercroft. 

49. Western Staircase, leailiag to the Rotunda. 

50. Western Main Entrance of the Capitol. — (See No. 49.) 



112 CAPITOL INTEHIOR. 

51. Senate Committee on Rules. 
Senate Committee on Manufactures. 

52. Senate Committee on the Census. 

53. Senate Committee on Education. 
54 and 55. Store Rooms. 

56. Room of the Territorial Delegates. 

57. House Committee on Expenses in the Navy Department. 

58. House Committee On Education and Labor. Here contumacious 
witnesses have been confined. 

59. Coinage, Weights and Measures. 

00. House Committee on the Revision of the Laws. 

61. House Committee on Mines and Mining. 

CENTRAL BUILUING-SOUTH WING. 

62. Vestibule. 

6-^. Corridor. — A continuation of the main corridor. 

65. Offices Superintendent of the House Document Room. The ad- 
jacent rooms are used for folding and storing public documents. 

64, 66, and 67. Offices of the Clerk of the House of Representatives. 

68. Washington Branch Post Office, (entrance outside.)— Congressional 
matter is here received and mailed to destination. 

69. Connecting Corridor. 

«OUTH OR HOUSE EXTENSIO.N. 

70. Main Corridor to the S. Entrance.— It is 14.3 ft. long and 25 tt. wide, 
and consists of a fine colontiade of fluted marble columns on each side, with cap- 
ita. Is formed of acanthus, tobacco, and corn leaves. The walls are scagliola, 
im'tating Sienna marble, the ceiling iron, and the floor encaustic tiles. 

71. Refectory. — C/£^« to the public. 

72. House Committee on Indian Affairs.- Here is a collection of oil 
paintinss, illustrating life among the Sioux Indians of Minnesota, painted 
in 1867-69 by Lieut. Col. Seth Eastman, a retired officer of the U. S.A. 

73. Corridor. 

74. House Baths, for the use of members of the House. There are 8 baths, 
4 of which are marble, and fitted up with all the elegance and appliances of 
the modern bath. 

75. Eastern Stairway and Corridor. — No special decoration. 
75. House Committee on Printing. — Walls simply tinted. 

77. House Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads. 

78. Passage to steps to Sub-basement. (See No. 93.) On the same are tne 
locksmith's shop and ice and store rooms. 

79. Eastern Entrance and Vestibule. — The entrance opens from the ar- 
caded walk and vaulted carriage way beneath the eastern portico of the House 
Extension. The gromed arches of the vestibule rest on 4 marble piers and cor- 
responding pilasters. The arches are decorated with stucco, and the walls are 
finished in scagliola. 

80. House Post office, fitted up with bird's-eye maple cases, with boxes for 
each member and the officers of the House of Representatives. The room is 
without decoration. 

81. House Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. — The deco- 
ration consists of paneled walls, with a balustrade above the moulding. The 
ceiling is embellished with arabesques, two American eagles and shields, anil 
has an elliptical centre-piece formed of balusters, in fresco, 

82. Room of the Official Reporters of Committees. 

83. House Committees on Coinage. Weights and Measures, and the 
Library. 

84. House Committee on Territories. — Richly and appropriately deco- 
rated with Indians' weapons of war and the chase and implemen'*i of peace. 
In the spans of the arches is a running border, with introductions of fox and 
deer heads, and the smaller animal life peculiar to the plains. Under the im- 
post molding is a border of fruits and grains, with escutcheons bearing the 



BASEMENT STORY. 113 

85. House Committee on Private Land Claims and Public Expen- 
ditures. — This room is without decoration. 

86. Doorkeepers' Room. — Plain walls. 

87. Newspaper and Index Room.— Here the newspaper subsciption- 
books for members are kept, each member being allowed I125 annually for 
newspapers and stationery. The index, for journals and all public documeiit& 
are also made here in pursuance of an order of Congress. 

88. House Committee on Invalid Pensions. 

89. House Committee on Claims.— Walls tinted. 

90. House Committees on Agriculture and Manufac- 
tures. —Decorated by Brumidi in 1855, the first work of 
the kind done on the Capitol, and, with the exception of 
the panels, is frescoed throughout. On the ceilings are 
representations of the four seasons, symbolized in Flora, 
Ceres, Bacchus, and Boreas. On the E. wall is a fresco 
representating Cindnnatus called from the plow to be Dic- 
tator of Rome. On the opposite wall is a corresponding 
scene, representing Putnam called from the plow to join in 
the battles of the Revolution. 

gi. Clerks' Document Room. — Ihrough this office the various executive 
departments and foreign legations in the United States are supplied with copies 
of documsnts printed by the two Houses of Congress. 

92. Western Stairway and Corridor. — No decoration. 

93. Steps to the Heating and Ventilating Apparatus, South Exten- 
sion. — (For description, see Szid-basement.) The iron grating at the end 
of the passage was originally designed for the ice used in the ventilation of the 
Hall of the Representatives during the summer months. Improved means have 
obviated the use of ice. Over this grating are the coils of steam pipes, measur- 
ing II miles, and used for heating the Hall of Representatives in winter. 

94. House Committee on War Claims. — No decoration. 

95. House Committee on Accounts. — Walls simply tinted, 

96. Closets. 

o. — All rooms marked o indicate used for storage, 
c. c. c. c— Courts. 

SUB-BASEMENT STORY. 

Under the entire building is a massive substruction or seat of masonry, con- 
sisting of piers and arches, upon which rears the mighty superstructure of the 
Capitol. 

NORTH OR SENATE EXTENSION. 

The sub-basement of the North or Senate Extension may be reached from 
Nos. 4 and ^7, Plan of Basement Story. The former is the proper way for 
visitors. This will lead to the — 

Senate Heating and Ventilating Apparatus. — Open to visitors. The 
machinery employed consists of 4 fans, 2 for air and 2 exhaust ; 4 boilers, 3 
engines, 2 steam-pumps, i for the 2 tanks in the loft over the Senate Chamber, 
and I for boilers ; 18 miles of steam-pipes in the entire Extension ; i vaporizer, 
2 descending shafts from the loft of the Srtnate Chamber, and i ascending shaft 
into the open air, the outlet at the base of the Dome. The principal air-shaft 
enters from the glacis of the first terrace in the W. Park, 220 ft. from the 
building, the air being drawn in by a fan, and forced through a main air-duct 
into the air-space under the floor of the Senate, and thence into the Chamber by 
means of registers. The air supplied in winter is raised to a tem.perature of 
68° to 70°, and in summer from 8° to 10° below the outer atmosphere. The 
temperature supplied to the galleries is some degrees lower, in order to coun- 
teract the animal heat which ascends to that portion of the Hall. A branch 
air-duct communicates with the galleries. The supply of fresh air is 30,000, 
and exhaust 40,000 cubic ft. a minute. The original apparatus was designed 
by Capt. M. C. Meigs, and the exhaust and other improvements by H. F. 
Hayden, Chief Engineer U. S. Senate. The engineer in charge will explain 



114 CAPITOL INTERIOR. 

CENTRAL BUILDING. 

The sub-basement of the Central Building may be reached by the steps No, 
^y Plan of Basement Story. There is also an entrance from the first terrace on 
the western front of the building, immediately below the main western entrance. 
The rooms on these Corridors are used for divers purposes, but of no special 
importance; the rooms on the Southern Corridor, W. side, by the Engineei 
in Charge of the Pubhc Buildings and Grounds. Here may be seen the 
■original manuscript lo\xrna.\s, letters, and other books and records of the com. 
•missioners superintending the building of the city, 1791-1800, and the records 
of a later period, and valuable early maps of the city. An attache will be 
found in the ofl5ce every day except Sundays and holidays. The key to the 
undercroft is kept here. Visitors desiring to see this portion of the building 
•will be kindly shown there by the person mentioned. 

The door at the end of the passage leading east from this corridor opens into 
-a court across which is the — 

Model Room. — This consists of a subterranean gallery, built of brick and 
heavily arched. It forms a complete circle, and constitutes a portion of the 
foundation of the Dome. Within this is a smaller gallery, and in the exact 
centre the Undercroft, which see. In these galleries are plaster models of cap- 
itals of columns, cornices, mouldings, tiles, and statuary employed in the embel- 
lishment of the exterior and interior of the Capitol. 

The Undercroft or Vault beneath the Crypt, originally designed for the 
sarcophagus containing the remains of Washington. The Undercroft, the nave 
and transept, measuring each lo feet in length, and about 6 in width, is cruci- 
form. 

Upon learning of the death of Washington, Congress, Dec. 24, 1799, passed 
resolutions appropriate to the sad event, and provided that a marble monument 
should be erected by the United States in the Capitol at Washington. The 
President was authorized to request the wife of the departed patriot to permit 
his body to be deposited under it. In response to the letter of the President, 
Mrs. Washington thus transmitted her assent : 

" Taught by the great example 1 have so long had before me, never to oppose 
my private wishes to the public will, I must consent to the request of Congress, 
which you had the goodness to transmit to me ; and in doing this I need not — 

1 cannot — say what a sacrifice of individual feeling I make to a sense of public 
duty." 

The wish of Congress was not carried out, and a subsequent request of the 
same character, in connection with the National Monument, was declined. 

SOUTH OR HOUSE EXTENSION. 

The sub-basement of the South or House Extension may be reached from 
Nos. 78 and gj. Plan 0/ Basement Story. The latter is the proper way for 
visitors. The steps from No. 93 lead directly to the — 

House Heating and Ventilating Apparatus. — The theory of ventilation 
of the South Extension is the same as tor the North, though not so elaborately 
carried out. One of the engineers will give any desired information. The 
machinery consists of 3 engines : No. i for the supply fan of the Hall of the 
Representatives ; No. 2 for the supply fan of the committee rooms and pas- 
sages ; and No. 3 for the exhaust fans ; 2 supply fans, 18 and 14 ft. in diameter; 

2 exhaust fans, 10 ft. in diameter ; 5 boilers ; 3 water tanks in the loft above the 
Hall of Representatives ; 2 steam-pumps, i for the supply of the boiler, and i 
for the supply of the tanks; and 30 miles of steam heating pipes. The air sup- 
plied in winter is raised to the same temperature applied to the heating and 
ventilation of the Senate. The supply of fresh air is about 40,000, and exhaust 
50,000 cubic feet a minute. 

While here the visitor can have an opportunity of examining the foundations 
of this part of the Capitol. The kitchens of the House Refectory are also here,. 
The vaiJted rooms are used for storage and fuel. 



HISTORY. 



115 



Architects of the Capitol. — 1793, Dr. William Thornton, of Penn., an 
amateur, designer of the Capitol ; 1793, Stephen Hallet, France; 1794, James 
Hoban, S. C; 1795, George Hadfield, England ; 1796, James Hoban, S. C.; 
1797, George Hadfield, England ; 1803, R, H. Latrobe, Md.; 1817, Charles 
Bulfinch, Mass.; 1851, Thomas U. Walter, Penn.; 1865, Edward Clark, Penn. 

History. — The site o/tht. Capitol was chosen and approved by Washing- 
ton, in the original plans of the city, submitted to him by L'Enfant, and in the 
summer of 1791 was located. On this occasion Mr. ElHcott drew the meridian 
and the E. and W. lines, at the intersection of which the Capitol was to stand. 
This having been accomplished, in March, 1793, the commissioners advertised 
in the newspapers in the principal towns and cities of the United States, offer- 
ing a premium of $500, or a medal, for a plan of a President's House and 
Capitoi. In this matter Jefferson took an active interest. During his residence 
tn Europe he had collected drawings of the fronts of celebrated public build- 
ings. These were now produced for examination. He suggested, in the present 
instance, that the style of architecture of the Capitol should be taken from 
some model of antiquity, and that the President's House should be modera 




THE CAPITOL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IN 184O. (EaStCm FaCadc.) 

In response to the advertisements a number of plans were submitted, but in the 
selection of one for the Capitol there was a variety of opinions. 

Apian by Dr. Wm. Thornton, of Penn., but materially altered and im- 
proved by others, was approved by Washington and submitted to Stephen 
Hallet, a French architect, who was intrusted with its execution. On Sept. 
18, 1793, the corner-stone of the edifice, SE. corner, was laid by Brothei 
George Washington, assisted by the Worshipful Masters and Free Masons 
©fthe surrounding cities, the military, and a large number of people. The 
silver plate deposited in the cavity of the stone bote the following inscription : 

'* This south-east corner-stone of the Capitol of the United' States of America, 
in the City of Washington, was laid on the i8th day of September, T793, in the 
th. rteenth year of American Independence, in the first year of the sec- 
ond tenn of the Presidency of George Washington, whose virtues in the civil 
administration of his country have been as conspicouous and beneficial, as his 
military valor and prudence have been useful in establishing her liberties, and 
in the year of Masonry 5793, by the President of the United States, in concert 
with the Grand Lodge of Maryland, several Lodges under its jurisdiction, and 
Lodge No. 22 from Alexandria, Virginia. 

"Thomas Johnson, David Stewart, and Daniel Carroll, Commissioners ; 
Joseph Clarke, R. W. G. M. P. T.; James Hoban and Stephen Hallate, Ar- 
'.hitects ; Coll'n Williumspn, M. Mason." 



16 



HISTORT. 



After ascending from the cavazion, the Grand Master, P. T., Joseph Clarke, 
delivered an oration during which, at intervals, volleys were fired by the 
zrtillery. The ceremony closed in prayer, Masonic chanting honors, and a 

national salute of 15 guns. 

The President wore the apron and full regalia of a Mason, The gavel used 
was of ivory, and is still preserved as a treasured relic by Lodge No. 9 ol 
Georgetown. . , , 

After the dedicatory services the entire assemblage took ^zx\.\\i& barbecue 
arranged for the occasion in the E. Park 

The N. Wing was ready for 
occupation in 1800. In the com- 

?leted wing the Senate on the 
^ . side, the House of Repre- 
sentatives on E., and the Su- 
preme Court in the basement, 
arst held their sessions. In 
1801 the House occupied a tem- 
porary structure called the 
"Oven," from its shape, erected 
on, the site of the present S. Ex- 
tension. In 1S05 it returned to 
^ its first apartment in the N. 
« Wing. In 1803 R. H. Latrobe 
"rt was appointed Architect of the 
rt Capitol. This gentleman made 
'^ radical changes in the elevation 
^ and ground plan of the build- 
^ ing, raising the floor from the 
^ ground story, to the principal 
^ order over the casement. The 
"" S. Wing was in readiness for the 
-■ occupation of Congress in 1811. . 
o^ The central portions were still 
unfinished. An unsightly wood- 
t en passage connected the two 
J wings. During thewarofi8i2 
work on the building was sus- 
pended. In 1814 the interior of 
both wings was destroyed by 
the British, after which Con- 
gress, on Sept. 19, 1814, met 
temporarily in the structure 
known as Blodgett's Hotel, sit- 
uated on the E-st. front of the 
square now occupied by the 
General Post Office. The ses- 
sion of Congress commencing 
Dec. 18, 1815, assembled in a 
building on the SE. corner of A 
and ist sts. NE., erected by the 
citizens of Washington for the 
purpose, and was occupied till 
the restoration of the S. Wing 
of the original Capitol in 1827. 
This structure was afterwards known as the "Old Capitol," and was used 
as a political prison during the Rebellion, 1861-^5. 

In 1815, after an obstinate discussion, for a time threatening the most serious 
consequences to the harmony of the Union, Congress determined to restore the 
Capitol. The work of restoration was commenced by Mr. Latrobe. Charles 
iiulhnch, of Boston, his successor, commenced the central portions of the build- 
ing, including the Rotunda and Library, in 1818, which were completed in 1827. 




HISTORY. 



UT 



In 1818 a temporary building was erected near the Capitol for the use of com- 
mittees of Congress, The plans of Latrobe, with a few slight modifications, 
wer'> carried out, and the entire structure, with terraces and grounds, was com- 
pleted in 13 years, at a cost, including alterations, repairs, &c., and improve- 
ment of grounds, to 1851, when the Extensions were added, $2,690,459.21. In 
Sept., 1850, Congress passed an act authorizing the extension of the Capitol. 
Thomas U. Walter, the architect of Girard College, at Philadelphia, in June, 
1851, submitted apian of extension to President Fillmore. This was accepted, 
and Mr. Walter was designated 
to carry it into execution. The 
corner-stone of the S. extension 
was laid on July 4, 1851. The 
following is a copy of the record 
deposited beneath the corner- 
stone : 

" On the morning of the first 
day of the seventy -sixth year of 
the Independenceof the United 
States of America, in the City 
of Washington, being the 4th 
day of July, 1851, this stone, 
designated as the corner-stone 
of the Extension of the Capitol, 
according to a plan approved 
by the President, in pursuance 
by of an act of Congress, was laid 
Millard Fillmore, President 
of the United States, assisted 
by the Grand Master of the 
Masonic Lodges, in the presence 
of many members of Congress; 
t;f officers of the Executive and 
Judiciary departments, Nation- 
al, State and District ; of officers 
of the Army and Navy ; the 
corporate ajthorities of thisand 
neighboring cities ; many asso- 
ciations, civil and military and 
Masonic; officers of the Smith- 
sonian Institution and National 
Institute ; professors of colleges 
and teachers of schools of the 
District of Cojumbia, with their 
students and pupils ; and a vast 
concourse of people from places 
near and remote, including a 
few surviving gentlemen who 
witnessed the laying of the 
corner-stone of the Capitol by 
President Washington, on the 
eighteenth day of September, 
seventeen hundred and ninety- 
three. 

" If, therefore, it shall be hereafter the will of God that this structure shall 
fall from its base, that its foundation be upturned, and this deposit brought to 
the eye of men, be it known that, on this day, the Union of the United States 
of America stands firm; that their Constitution still exists unimpaired, and 
with all its original usefulness and glory, growing every day stronger and 
stronger in the affections of the great body of the American people, and attract- 
ing more and more the admiration of the world. And all here assembled. 
whethe'- belonging to public life or to private life, with hearts devoutly thankful 




118 



HISTORY OF CONGRESS. 



to Almighty God for the preservation of the hberty and happiness of the coun 
try, unite in sincere and fervent prayers that this deposit, and the walls and 
arches, the domes and towers, the columns and entablatures, now to be erected 
over it, may endure forever 1 
" God save the United States of America 1 Daniel Webster, 

"Secretary of State of the United States." 
Daniel Webster, the orator of the day, concluded the ceremonies 
In 1855 Congress authorized the removal of the Dome, and the construction 
of a new one of iron, according to the plans of Architect Walter. The first 
Dome was built of wood. In the fire of 1851, which consumed the interior of 
the Library of Congress, this Dome was in imminent danger. Tnough»it 
escaped destruction, the lesson suggested its removal, which was done in 1856. 
In its place the erection of the present Dome of iron, finished in 1865, was 
undertaken. The inner shell of the first Dome was ornamented with panels or 
caissons, and modeled after that of the Pantheon of Agrippa at Rome. Tt was 
smaller in size, the Dome of the Capitol being 96 ft, in height and diameter, 
and 122 J^ ft to the skylight. The Dome of the Pantheon was 142 ft. in diam- 
eter, which was about the same as the height, one-half being the height of the 
Dome, and the circular opening for light 23 ft. in diameter. The outer shell of 
the Dome of the Capitol was higher in proportion than its original in Rome. 
The circular aperture at the apex was also covered by a cupola, around which 
there was a balustrade, reached by a stairway between the inner and outer 
sbells. The access, however, was inconvenient and dangerous. On one occa- 
sion a lady slipped and fell upon the sash, breaking the glass, but was prevented 
from precipitation to the pavement of the Rotunda below by the strength of the 
frame. 

The work on the Capitol was continued through the war of the rebellion, 
i86i-'65. On December 12, 1863, at noon, the statue of Freedom which sur- 
mounts the Dome was placed in position. The flag of the United States was 
unfurled from its crest, and was greeted by the shouts of thousands of citizens 
and soldiers. A national salute of thirty-five guns was fired by a field battery 
in the E. Park, and was responded to by the great guns of the chain of forts 
constituting the defenses of the threatened capital of the Nation. 

The new Hall of the S. Extension was occupied by the House of Represen- 
tatives December 16, 1857, and that of the N. by the Senate January 4, 1859. 
The Capitol to date cost: Main Building ^3,000,000 ; Dome, $1,000,000; 
Extensions N, and S., ^8,000,000 ; miscellaneous, $1,000,000. Total, $13,000,. 
000. {See description 0/ the Capitol /or details o/its construction, embellish' 
Mtents, and objects nfivtrrest -within its mighty avails. ) 

SISTOEY 

OF 

coiraBESs. 

The First Continental 
Congress, Peytoin Ran- 
dolph, of Va., President 
met at Philadelphia in 
September, 1774, all the 
colonies except Georgia 
being represented. The 
British king and minis- 
try were highly incensed 
at these " persons, styling 
themselves delegates of 
his majesty's colonies 
in America, having 
presumed, without his 
majesty's consent, to as- 
semble together at Phila- 
delphia." The royal disap- 
probation of the proceed- 




HISTORY OF CONGRESS. 119 

in; had no eflfect whatever. This Congress met May lo 1775, at Philadelphia, 
ADv* agi..ii chose Peyton Randolph, of Va., President; but owing to severe illness 
he '-esigned, and on May 24, John Hancock was chosen. Since this gathering 
th( American Congress, Continental or General, as it has been variously styled, 
hai had an unbroken line of succession. Under the Articles 0/ Confederation^ 
executed at Philadelphia July 9, 1778, Congress met annually on the first Mon- 
day in November. 

The first Congress under th,^ Constitution commenced March 4, 1789, held 
twc sessions in New York City, and subsequently met in Philapelphia, Dec. 
6, 1 /90. Here it remained until June, 1800, when the executive branch of the 
Government was transferred from Philadelphia to the Permanent Seat of Gov- 
ert^ment^ and future Capitol of the Republic, established by act of 1790, on the 
bai.ks of the Potomac. The 6th Congress, 2d Session, the first which met in 
the City of W^ajAm^jw, assembled there on Nov. 17 (third Monday), 1800. 
On Nov. 22, the President of the United States, John Adams, in person, deliv- 
ere J an address to the two Houses of Congress assembled in the Senate Cham- 
bei of the Capitol, then in one of the apartments now occupied by the Supreme 
Court of the United States, and felicitated them upon an occasion so gratify- 
ing. Since that time, with the exception of a brief interruption after the de- 
struction of the interior of the building by the British in 1814, Congress has 
made its home in the Capitol. Congress meets under the Constitution on the 
first Monday in December of each year, unless otherwise provided by law. 

The Senate, composed ot two Senators from each State, chosen by the Leg- 
islatures of the same for six years, exercises executive as well as legislative 
functions. The Vice President of the United States is ex officio President of 
the Senate. In event of a vacancy the Senate elects a President /r(5» ^^^emi>ore. 



The House of Represen. . ... ^-omposcu or members chosen every 

second year by the people of the several States, apportioned by act of Congress 
according to population. The ratio of representation, now in vogue, under 
the census of 1870, is i to 131,425 souls, or 292 Representatives and 1 Delegate 
w'thout a vote for each Territory. The ^ouse elects its own presIditiT c^llcer. 



120 



PRESIDENT S HOUSE. 

PRESIDENT'S HOUSE. 



The official residence of the President of the United States 
of America stands on the W. plateau of the city, 1^ m. from 
the Capitol. In the earlj^ official plans and documents it is 
designated the Presidenfs Bouse, but has been since styled 
the Executive Mansion^ and popularly the ''''White House.^* 
The Fennsylvania-av. street cars pass in front. 

G-rounds- — The edihce stands on Reservation No. 1, 
known as the President's grounds, which comprise 80f 
acres. The north, or main entrance to the building is reached 
from Pa. av., by a semi-circular drive entered through two 
massive gateways. The grounds are tastefully laid out with 
walks, trees, shrubbery, and fountains. The grounds on the 
south are private. Here on Saturdays, from 6 to 8 P. M. 
during the summer, the United States Marine Band dis- 
courses excellent music. 

The stately edifice, 450 ft. west, contains the Siate^ War, and Navy De- 
partments, and the proposed executive office in the north pavihon ; that on 
the east contains the Treasury Department. Across Pa. av. north is Lafay- 
ette Square, with its statue of Jackson, while south, across a broad expanse 
of lawn, lake, and winding drive (Executive Avenue) are the Washington 
Monument and the broad Potomac, with the hills of Virginia and the City ol 
Alexandria in the distance. The structure nearby to the S. W., is the Presi- 
dent's Stables. 




PLAN OF THE PKINCIPAL STORY, PRESIDENT'S HOUSE. 

The Building.— The President's House {East Room open 
to visitiors every^ day, except Sundays, and private parlors by 
special permission, from 10 a. m. to r> p.m.) built of freestone 
painted white, is 170 ft. long by 86 ft. wide, two stories 
high, broken by pilasters of the order, and crowned with 
a balustrade. On the N. is a grand portico, of 8 Ionic coir 
umns, with corresponding pilasters in the rear, affording 



122 PRKMOy.NI' s nousF,. 

a shelter for carriages and pedestrians. The S. front is 
adorned with a lofty semi-circular colonnade of 6 Ionic col- 
umns, resting on a rustic basement, and reached by 2 
flights of steps. On the W. are the conservatories. The 
general style is a modification of the residence of the Duke 
of Leinster, Dublin. 




THE EAST ROOM (jARVIS). 

T. Main or North entrance, and vestibule 40x50 ft., is tastefully frescoed. 
A sash screen dividing the latter forms a private corr\dor (No. 14) within. 

2. Official Stairway, leading to the Cabinet room and Executive offices. 

3. East Room, designed originally as a Banquet Hall, and so used as late 
as 1837, is 80x40 ft , and 22 ft. high. The style of decoration is pure Greek, 
executed in 1873, ceiling in oil, walls in embossed paper, the dado, columns, 
girders, cornice, and carved mantels in wood in white and gilt ; mirrors and 
richly upholstered furniture and hangings add to the attractions of the room. 
The full-length portrait of Washington was purchased by a committee of Con- 
gress in 1803, for $2,000, for a Gilbert Stuart. Its genuineness, however, on 
apparently competent authority, is disputed. The original was painted for 
Gardner Baker, of New York, 1794-5. It fell into other hands and was offered to 
the Com. Cong, for the President's House. Havingpurchasedit,Winstanley, an 
English artist, was directed to pack and forward it. The charge is that he made 
a copy and sent that to Washington, and took the original to Europe. When 
discovered, there was no redress. The original came into possession ol 
Earl Lansdowne, and on his death into the hands of a London merchant, from 
whom it passed into the hands of Delaware Lewis. The claimed original was 
exhibited in the English loan collection at the Centennial Exposition of 1876. 
The portrait, upon the advance of the British in 1814, was saved by Mrs. Mad- 
ison, who had it taken from the frame and carried to a point of safety. The 
Martha Washin^on, is by E. F. Andrews, of Ohio, 1878, $3,000. The dress 
is an authentic copy of the costume of the time, made in Paris for a lady of 
wealth, to be worn at the Martha Washington Centennial tea-party at Phila- 
delphia, 1876. This room is now part of the suite for receptions. 

4. Green Room, 30x20 ft., so-called from the predominant color 

The portrait of Mrs. R. B. Hayes, by D. Huntingdon, 1881, $3500, vas pre 
sented to the Government by the Hayes' Temperance Testimonial Commission 
of the U. S., March 1881. The frame, carved by the ladies of the School of 
Design, Cincinnati, presented by the ladies of that city, cost %vx>. 



PRESIDENT S HOUSE. 



123 




THK BLUE PARLOR (JARVIS). 

5. The Blue Room, a beautiful apartment, 40x30 ft., oval in form and fin. 
isned in blue and gilt ', furnishings in blue damask. The chandelier is crystal 
and gilt. In this room the President receives on occasions of Public or Pri- 
v«e Receptions : also the President's wife at her Drawing Rooms 




STATE t)IM\ J OAI VJAKVIS) 

6. Red Room, 30x20 ft., tastefully furnished and contains many articles of 
interest. 

7. State Dining Room, 40x30 feet, contains a dimng table to seat 38 per* 
sons, and table ornaments of a tasteful character. The china set in use con- 
sists of 500 pieces, by Haviland & Co., Limoges, 1880, representing the Fauna 
and Flora of America, cost $15,000, the government paying $3,000 



124 



pkesident's house 



8. Passage and Entrance to the conservatories A/id stairway to kitchens, 
laundry, servants' quarters, etc., in the basement, q. Butler's Pantry. lo, 
Dining Room, contains fine mahogariy buffets, exhibiting some of the State 
service, and richly furnished, ii. Private Stairway. 12, Small Waiting 
Room. 13. Elevator. 

14. Grand Corridor, thrown open during receptions. The portraits of 
Presidents John Quincy Adams, Van Buren, Tyler, Polk, Fillmore, and Pierce, 
are by Geo. P. A. Healy, 1857, for busts, $800, and full lengths, ^1,000; Jack- 
son, by E. F. Andrews, 1880, ^150, after Alfred Sully, of Pa., 1835; Lincoln, by 
W. Coggswell, 1867, ^3,000; Grant, by Henry Ulke, 1879, ^800; Buchanan, by 
Andrews, 1880, ^400, after family portraits ; and Garfield, by Andrews (life), 
t882, $1500. 




PLAN OF THE SECOND FLOOR, EXECUTIVE MANSION. 

X. Official Stairway. 2. Ante-Room to President's office. 

3. Cabinet Room, or President's office. The President sits at the south end 
of the table. The Secretaries of State on his right. Treasury on his left. War 

bright, Navy left, Postmaster-General right, Attorney-General left, and the Sec- 
etary of the Interior at the north end. The furnishings of the room are rich. 
Here is a portrait of John Hampden, leader of the Long Parliament in the time 
of Cromwell, attributed to Van Dyck ; presented to Congress by John McGregor, 
i>I. P., accepted 1857 : and a plaster copy of the head of Lincoln, from life, by 
L. W. Volk, i860. 

4. Private Secretary's Room. 5. Executive Clerks and Record Room. 
6. Public Corridor. 7. Office. 8. Ante-Room. 9, 10, and 11. Chambers. 
12. Elevator. 13. President's Chamber. 14. Dressing Room. In this 
latter room the post-mortem examination of the remains of President Lincoln was 
made. 15. Private Corridor, containing portrait of Mrs. John Tyler, by 
F. Anelli. 16 and 17. Chambers. In 17 President Garfield lay when suflfer- 
ing from the assassin's bullet, 16 being a dressing-room. These rooms have been 
used by the Pre.sidents for a long line of years. 18. State Bed Chamber. (See 
page 126.) 

19. Library, containing cases for books. This room is tasteful in decoiation 
and furnishing. The Desk was made from the teak timbers of the Arctic ship 
Resolute (picked up at sea 1855, and restored to the British Government), pre- 
sented to the United States by the British Admiralty, 1880. Here are J> or traits 
of Presidents John Adams, by Edgar Parker, of Mass., after Gilbert Stuart, 1876, 

§150; Jefferson, by Stuart, purchased 1876,^1,000; Madison, by Parker, after 
tuart, $150; Monroe, by Parker, after Stuart, $150; Harrison, by Andrews, 
11879,^150, after J. H. Beard, 1840; Taylor, by Andrews, 1879, $150, after J. 
Vanderiyn, 1850 ; Johnson, by Andrews, 1880, ^200. The head of Washington 
is a copy of Houdon's plaster cast from life, at Mt. Vernon, executed in bronze 
by Robert Wood & Co., 1874. bv order of the Secretary of War. 



^^F.slDKNT S HOUSE. 



125 

PPfiiilll 




THB STATE BBD CHAMBER (jAKVIS> 

History — The President's House, or '•'• Palace," so styled in the earlier doc- 
uments, was the first of the public buildings erected. On March 14, 1792., the Com- 
missioners of the city advertised for plans for a President's House and Capitol. On 
July 16, 1792, these were examined at Georgetown. The first premium of $500 was 
awarded to James Hoban, of Charleston, S. C, for the plan of a President's House. 
On Oct. 13, 1792, the Commissioners, accompanied by the Freemasons, architects, 
and the inhabitants of Washington and Georgetown, marched in procession to the 
site selected for the President's House, and there, with appropriate and solemn 
ceremonies, laid the corner-stone of that structure. 

The work was conducted under the direction of Mr. Hoban, the architect, and 
was prosecuted under the same difficulties which surrounded the Capitol. Mr. 




president's housb; — south front. 

The first President to occupy the building was John Adams, who look possessiea 
in Nov., i8cx3, after the removal of the public offices to the permanent Seat of Gov- 
ernment. Previous to that time the Executive of the United States was without a 
home owned by the nation. In New York and Philadelphia rented houses were 
occupied. The building up to 1814 had cost $335,207. 

The President's House was destroyed by the British in 1814. / ."' ■ ■ ' e evacua- 
tion the President occuoied a fine residence on rhe corner of K-jw 'It-, ^ and iS'b 



126 



PRESIDENT S HOUSE. 



St NW., known as the " Octagon, "recently used by the hydrographic office of the 
Navy Department. In 1815 Congress authorized the restoration of the Prestdent'a 
House, which was done by Hoban, the original architect. It was not ag«B ready, 
however, till after 1818. In 1823 the S. portico, in 1826 the East Room, and in 
1829 the N. portico were finished. Since that time the interior of the structure has 
been subject to frequent renovations and repairs. It is entirely unsuitable, how- 
ever, for the purposes to which it is now applied : executive offices and private res- 
idence. Congress has now under consideration a proposition to erect a suitable and 
exclusively private mansion in the suburbs of the capital for the residence of the 
President's household, and the conversion of the present building into execu- 
tive offices. The total appropriations for the erection and maintenance of the Pres- 
ident's House from 1800 to date amounts to Si, 700,000. 

For formaiities and receptions, see General Information— 




THB CABINET ROOM CtARVIS * 

Fresidents of the United States 0/ America. — i. George Washington, Va., 
89-1797, Federalist ; 2, John Adams, Mass., 1797-1801, Fed.; 3. Thomas Jef- 
'•son, Va., i3oi-i8o9, Republican; 4. James Madison, Va., 1809-1817, Rep.; 
. James Monroe, Va , 1817-1825, Rep.; 6. John Quincy Adams, Mass , 1825- 
829, Rep.; 7. Andrew Jackson, renn., 1S29-1837, Democrat; 8. Martin Van 
Buren, N. Y., 1837-1841 Dem.; 9 William Henry Harrison, Ohio, 1S41, 
t mo., Whig; 10. John i'yler, Va., 1841-1845, elected a Whig; 11. James K. 
Polk, Tenn., 1845-1849, Dem.; 12. Zackary Taylor, La., 1849-1850, Whig • 
13. Millard Fillmore N. Y., 1850-1853, Whig; 14. Franklin Fierce, N. H., 
1853-1857, Dem.; 15. Jahies Buchanan, Penn., 1857-1861, Dem.; 16. .Abraham 
Lincoln, 111., 1861-1865, Rep.; 17. Andrew Johnson, Tenn., i865-t869, elected 
a Republican; 18. Ulysses S. Grant. HI., 1869-1877, Rep.; 19. R. B. Hayes, 
Ohio, 1877.81, Rep.; 20, 1881, James A. Garfield, Ohio, Ren, 21, 1881, Chester 
A. Arthur. N. Y., Rep. 

A'be Executive. — The Executive power of the United States (Const., 
1787, Ait. II., Sec. 1) is vested in a President, who holds office for four years, 
ind a Vice-Presider.:. chosen for the same term. No person except a natiira) 



DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 127 

5orn citizen of the United States, having attained to the age of 35 years, is elig- 
ible to the office. The President and Vice-President are elected by electors in 
each State, as prescribed by Article XII., Amendments to the Constitution of 
the United States (1804), the Acts of Congress of March i, 1792, and January 
23, 1845, and State law enacted in compliance therewith. After the Vice-Presi- 
dent the President of the Senats pro ternpore, or, if none, the Speaker of the 
House of P epresentati veSjfor the time being, is authorized to act as President until 
the disability be removed or a President elected. The declination or resigna- 
tion of the President or Vice-President must be in writing, and delivered into 
the office of the Secretary of State. 

The term of office commences March 4th, after the election, if Sunday, on the 
day following; no inaugural ceremony is required, except that the oath per- 
scribed by the Constitution be taken. This solemn duty is performed by the 
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. 

The President'' s salary is {^50,000 per aimum, and the use of the furniture 
and effects belonging to the United States and kept in the Execiiitiye'Mansieni. 
The_ official household consists of a private and assistant secretaires, two ex- 
ecutive clerks, one steward and one messenger, 'V\iz steward ol tki?: President's 
household, under the direction of the President, is responsible for the plate, 
furniture and other public property in the President's House, and must give a 
bond to the United States for a fiithful discharge of his trust. Jefferson was 
the first President inaugurated in Washington The first inaugural address 
delivered outside the Senate Chamber was by Monroe. The executive has no 
powers except in conjunction with the legislative branch. Previous to the 
adoption of the Constitution the executive power was vested in Congress. 



DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 

The Department of State, (open daily from 9J a. m. to 2^ 
•p. m., except Thursdays, devoted exclusively to the diplomatic 
corps, and Saturdays, during sessions of Congress, to members,) 
occupies the S. pavilion of the imposing edifice, immedi- 
ately W. of the President's House. 

The Building: — This vast structure, erected for the 
accommodation of the Departments of State, War and Navy, 
designed by A. B. Mullett, Supervising Architect of the 
Treasury, consists of three harmonious buildings united by 
connecting wings, and together forming in design and exe- 
cution, the finest edifice of the kind in the world. 

The style is the Roman Doric (Italian Renaissance), 
originally treated. It combines the massive proportions of 
ancient with the elegance of modern architecture. The 
dimensions from N. to S., including pavilion projections and 
steps, are 567 ft., and from E. to W. 342 ft., or exclusive of 
projections, 471 ft. N. and S. and 253 ft. E. and W. The 
greatest height from the terrace level over all is 128 ft. 
There is a sub-basement and basement of Maine granite, and 



128 DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 

superstructure of Virginia granite, comprising four stories in 
the pavilions of the N. and S. facades, and one in the roof, 
and five stories and one in the roof in the E. and W. cen- 
tre pavilions. The whole is crowned by an artistically de- 
signed mansard roof. The building was commenced in 1871, 
and the S, pavilion finished and occupied by the Depart- 
ment of State in 1875. The entire structure has 150 
rooms, and cost $5,000,000. 

The building has four facades of equal importance, the N 
and S., and the E. and W, being respectively counterparts 
There are two courts into which there are four private car 
riage ways from the E. and W. The E. and W. facades pre- 
sent the appearance of a centre and two lateral wings. 
The centre is connected with the N. and S. by two wings. 
There are four grand entrances by the N., S. and, E. W. centres 
of the pavilions approached by massive flights of steps 
through the projecting porticoes. The platforms are of im- 
mense blocks of granite, weighing over 20 tons each. There 
are four other entrances of less importance. The building 
is absolutely fire-proof. All the stone was dressed in the 
quarries. The sub-basement is devoted to storage, fur- 
naces and engines, the basement to bindery, storage and 
clerks' rooms. The remaining stories are divided into 
splendid apartments, for the uses of the various bureaus of 
the Department. 

Objects of Interest. — A grand corridor, 15 ft. wide, and paved with 
marble, traverses each floor of the building from E. to W., and may be 
reached by an elevator ixoxa. the basement to the attic. 

On the second floor, looking S. over the Potomac, is a magnificent suite of 
apartments for the use of the Secretary of State and his assistants. The 
Diplomatic Reception Koom (4 and 6) is a sumptuous salon decorated in the 
Germanized Egyptian, in distemper, with marquetry floor, and furnishing of 
ebonized woods and gold brocade. On the walls are portraits of Daniel 
Webster by Geo, P. A. Healy, 1843, ^"^^ Lord Ashburton by the same, 1848, 
purchased by Congress, 1879, ;^3 ,000 each, from the widow of Fletcher Web- 
ster, and represent the principals in the negotiations of 1842, which settled 
the northern boundary question. On the consoles over the mantels are 
bronze heads by Bartholdi, 1876, E. Barbidienne Paris, of Washington and 
Lafayette. 

The rooms of the Secretary of State (12), First^ Second and Third Assis- 
tants, and Chief Clerk on the same range, are chastely decorated in distem- 
f)er. The Diplo-fratic Ante Room at the W. end of the corridor contains a 
ife-size portait of the Bey of Tunis, sent by special envoy, 1865, with a letter 
of condolence on the assassination of President Lincoln. Also of W. H. 

Seward, by Rufus Wright, and Daniel Webster, by Pope, from life. In 

the Ante Room at the E. end of the corridor is a collection of photographs 
and crayons of the Secretaries of State, commenced in 1865. 

On the third story is the Library. The alcoves in four tiers are entirely of 
iron. Overhead is a glass canopy. The whole is finished in tint and gilt. 
The collection 0/ works embraces the finest library on questions of diplomacy 
on the continent. There are also many objects of historic value, including 
the original draft of the declaration of Independence, and the desk upon which 
it was wqitten, presented by Jefferson to James Coolidge, jr., of Mass., and 
presented to the U. S. by his heirs, 1880; also the original instrument signed ; 
George Washington's sword, purchased 1880 by Congress, and commission as 



^iiiiiillipilllllllllllllilillilil!;!!: 

,1 piM,,.,, : 




130 



DEPARTMENT OF STATE. 



commander-in-chief; staflf of Benjamin Franklin ; treaties with England and 
Sweden, with immense seals ; a fcic simile of a treaty between the Athenians 
and Chalcideans, 446-41.5 B. C, in the time of Pericles, engraved on a slab 
•of Pentalic marble, found in 1876 in the S. wall of the Acropolis at Athens, 
and other objects of interest. 

In the Department are the original rolls of all the laws of the United 
States, the original drafts of Revoludonary Documents, the Federal Consti- 
tution, the Diplomatic and Consular archives, including treaties and other 
documents of historic value from the foundation of the government. 

The colujnns, pilasters, casi^igs and beams in the corridors are of iron, the 
doors throughout are of Honduras Mahogany. The spacious stairways at 
either end of the corridors are of granite, with exquisite bronze balusters ; over 
head is a wtucco canopy. There is an electric clock on each floor. The floors 
are of white Vermont and black Pennsylvania marbles. 

Secretaries 0/ State — 1789, Thomas Jefiferson, Va.; 1794, Edmund Ran- 
dolph, Va.; 1795, Timothy Pickering, Mass.; 1800, John Marshall, Va.; 1801, 
James Madison, Va.; 1809, Robert Smith, Md.; 1811, James Monroe, Va.; 
1817, John Q. Adams, Mass.; 1825, Henry Clay Ky.; 1829, Martin Van Buren, 
N. Y.; 1831, Edward Livingston, La.; 1&33, Louis JVIcLane, Del.; 1834, John 
Forsyth, Ga.; 1841, Daniel Webster, Mass.; 1843, Hugh S. Legare, S. C; 1843, 

A. P. Upshur, Va.; 1844, John Nelson, Md.; 1844, J. C. Calhoun, S. C; 1845, 
James Buchanan, Penn.; 1849, J. M. Clayton, Del.; 1850, Daniel Webster, 
Mass.; 1852, Edward Everett, Mass.; 1853, W. L. Marcy, N. Y.; 1857, Lewis 
Cass, Mich.; i860. Jer. S. Black, Penn.; 1861, W. H. iSeward, N. Y.; 1869, E. 

B. Washburne, 111.; 1869, Hamilton Fish, N. Y; 1877, William M. Evarts, N.Y. 
1881, James G. Blaine. Me, t88i. Fredr^Wck T. Frpi;n5r>.„vsen. N. T 

History of the Department. — Before the adoption of the Constitu- 
tion of the United States the "Department of Foreign Affairs" was under the 
direction of an offlcer styled " Secretary to the United States of America for the 
Dep^'-tm-nt of Foreic;n Affairs." 

On July 27 and September 15, 1789, it was created a Department, 
and the chief officer styled the Secretary of State. He is ex officio a 
member of the President's Cabinet, and carries out his instructions in all 
matters relating to diplomatic intercourse with foreign nations, negotiates 
treaties, instructs 
ministers and con- 
suls of the U. S., 
grants passports to 
citizens of the U.S. 
leaving the coun- 
try ; is the cuito- 
dia?i of the Seal of 
the U. S.,and uses 
it under orders 
from the President, 
prepares and at- 
tests commissions 
granted to all offi- 
cers of the U. S. 
confirmed by the 
Senate, and super- 
intends the publi- 
cation of all acts 
and resolutions of 
Congress, and for 
eign and Indian 
sreaties, and pre- 
terves the originals 
of the same. 




TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 131 



TKEASURY DEPART3*IENT. 

The Treasury Department {open to the public dailij^ except 
Sunday^ from 9 a.m. to 1 p. m.) lies E. of the President's 
House, on the line of 15th st., and may be reached from the 
E. or W. by the Pennsylvania-av. line of street cars. 

The Building. This consists of a basement and sub-base- 
ment of rustic work, three stories of the pure Grecian 
Ionic order, and an attic, surmounted by a balustrade. It 
measures 468 ft. from N. to S., and 264 ft. from E. to W., 
and inclusive of porticoes and steps, 582 ft. by 300 ft., and 
hsis four fronts. The western, consisting of a colonnade after 
the style of Minerva Pallas at Athens, 336 ft. long, with 30 
Ionic colums of Virginia freestone, and flanked at either 
end by a recessed portico. The remaining facades are of 
Dix Island (Me.) granite. The east front, facing the Presi- 
dent's House, is broken by a central portico of 8 monolithic 
pillars, and 2 in the recess in the centre and the same on 
the sides, and reached by a broad flight of steps. Small 
porticoes, corresponding with the central one, are at either 
end of the W. front. The north and south fronts have a 
central portico, the same as that on the west. 

The sieps on these fronts descend to broad tessellated platforms. On that 
on the north is z. fountain, the tassa 12 ft. in diameter, cut from a single block 
of granite. The shafts of all the granite columns are monolithic, 31 J^ ft. high, 
4 ft. in diameter, and weigh 33 tons. The pilasters, the same, weigh 6 tons. 
The cap-stones of the blockings against which the steps abut measure 18 ft. by 
17 ft. and 20 inches high, and weigh 43 tons. The building has ^principal en' 
trances, and on the N., W, and E., are beautiful parterres. 

The interior cor\s\s,\s, of 2 hollow squares, 138x123 ft., separated by a wing 
120 ft. long by 57 ft. wide. At the west entrance is a vestibule, formed of 6 
Doric columns, supporting groined arches and tastefully decorated. The cor- 
ridors to the N". and S. lead to those wings, and the centre one to the west en- 
trance. A double stairway at either end of the latter ascends to the upper 
stories, and another leads to the basement and sub-basement, where are ma- 
chine shops, engine rooms, etc., in the latter, and in the former storerooms and 
offices. On the principal and upper stories are the official apartments of the 
Secretary of the Treasury, and Bureaus of the Department. The corridors 
of the new portions of the building are broken by iron columns and pilas- 
ters, with ornamented capitals. The building contains 200 rooms independent 
of the basement and attic, and cost $6,000,000. 

The east or old portion of the building occupies the site of the old south- 
eastern Executive building, destroyed by fire in 1833, rebuilt in its present mag- 
nificence 1836-41, from plans by Robert Mills. This part was T shape. The N., 
W. and S. extensions were designed 1855, by Walter, architect of the capital, 
begun by Young, continued by— Rogers, and completed by A. B, Mullet. 

Objects of Interest. — The Office of the Secretary of the Treasury is a 
beautiful apartment on the second floor, on the S. side of the south corridor. 
The Cash Room, entrance on the first floor, N. corridor. The balcony is en- 
tered by a door from the S. corridor on the second floor. The most attractive 
features of the room are the walls, which are of highly polished marbles of 
beautiful variety, as follows : Lower Story — stylobate, bcLse, black, Ver- 
mont ; mouldings, Bardiglio, Italian : stiles, dove, Vermont : panels, Sienna, 
ftalian; dies, Tennessee. Above st'H.O'bktu, pilasters and panel Beads, 



132 TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 

white-veined, stiles. Sienna, Italian ; panels, Bardi^io, Italian ; cormre, 
white-veined, Italian. Upper Story — stylobate same as lower. Above 
stylobate as in lower story, except the panels, which are Sarrangolum marble 
from the Pyrenees. The vaults, in which the current funds of the Govern- 
ment are kept, may be seen on a written pertnit from the Treasurer of the 
United States, office in the NE. angle of the building, first floor, deliver to 
the Cashier, first door W. of the entrance to the Cash Room. The vaults are 
of steel and chilled iron, about 20 by 15 ft. Another of the same capacity is 
overhead. The amount usually in the vault is about $10,000,000, including 
gold coin. The money is kept in packages or bags in the wooden cases. Near 
the door of the vault is an elevator, used for conveying money between the 
vaults above and the express office immediately below. As much as $5,000,000 
have been shipped to the different sub-treasuries in a single day. The vault 
31 which the national bank bonds are kept is on the same floor, near by, the 
permit being delivered to the Chief of the Division of National Banks, whose 
office is in the NW. angle of the building. In the basement are two reserve 
vaults, not open to visitors at all. 

The Counting of the Ctirrency may be seen through the doorways on the 
right of the west corridor, N. end. None but employees are permitted to enter. 
The counting is done entirely by lady clerks. The facility and accuracy with 
which they accomplish their work are marvelous. 

The Library on the S. corridor third floor contains 8,000 volumes of the 
choicest works in every branch of literature. It is for the use of the employees. 

The Redemption Division,'!:^, corridor of the basement; the currency unfit 
for circulation, and received from all parts of the country, is here counted and 
cancelled previous to be burned. The cancelling is done by a machine run by 
a turbine wheel. A permit from the Treasurer must be obtained, the same 
as for a visit to the vaults. 

The Rooms of the Supervising Architect of the Treasury in the basement, 
W. corridor S. end, contain a number of suberb drawings of public buildings 
erected by the government. The general features of inerest in the building 
are the north, west and south corridors, and the gracefully designed granite 
stairways leading from them. See Portraits of the Secretaries, Page 135. 

Photograph Office.— Opposite the S. entrance is the 
building occupied by the Photographer of the Treasury 
Department. Here /ac similes of accounts for verification 
by agents sent throughout the country or abroad, and 
plans and elevations of public buildings, are made by 
means of photography. This work is carried on on a large 
scale. 

The Bureau of Bngraving and Printing. — This branch of the Treas- 
ury Department occupies a separate structure on the Mall, 
cor. 14th and B sts., S. W., between the Agricultural De- 
partment and Washington Monument. Visitors admitted 
from 9:30 to 11:45 a. m., and 12:30 to 2 p. m. Apply to 
officer of the watch, main entrance, for required pass from 
the Chief of Bureau. 

The building is 220 ft. long and 135 ft. wide, designed by James G. Hill, Su- 
pervising Architect of the Treasury ; is of the Romanesque style ; authorized 
by Congress, 1878 ; cost ^300,000 ; was occupied July 6, 18S0; is constructed 
of pressed bricks, above the basement with string courses of moulded bricks ; is 
fire-proof throughout, the floors consisting of iron girders and brick arches, the 
doors and window Trames only being of wood. The North facade, facing the 
city, comprises a basement and three stories, surmounted by an artistic cor- 
nice, and broken by three pavilions, that at the N. E., rising into a belfry 
tower 130 ft. high. The South facade, overlooking the Potomac river, is bro- 
ken by several chimneys of architectural designs. The west carries off the 
fumes of the hardening rooms, and is built of massive walls to resist the action 



i34 



TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 



of the fumes of the acids used in hardening the plates. The elevator towerx 
are also of beautiful designs. The stack from the boiler rooms in the rear is 
loo ft. high. 

On the Principal story are the entrance hall in the belfry tower, lined with 
ornamental and colored brick, and the stairway of iron and brass railing, with 
ornamental and enamel brick wainscoting. Near by are the rooms of the offi- 
cer of the watch and administrative offices. On this floor are the vaults, with 
time-locks of the most delicate mechanism, generally set from 4 p. m, to 7 a. 
m.; the hardening room, where softened rollers and plates containing the de- 
signs are hardened for use by being put into furnaces with heated cyanide of 
potassium : transfer ; geometric lathe ; dressing and wash rooms. 

^\i& plate vaults guarded day and night by tmsted watchmen, contains all 
the engraved plates of the government. The chief custodian is under the Sec- 
retary of the Treasury, and delivers plates for printing only upon the Secreta- 
ry's order, and requires them to be restored at the "Irxse of work hours. 




THE BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING. 

In the basement, reached from the main hall-way, are clerks' offices ; bind- 
ery : perforating, gumming, ruling, steam plate press, engine and boiler rooms 
and ink mill. There are 8 boilers, 40 H. P. each, and 2 engines 200 H. P. an 
6o H. P., and 2 elevators. 

In the sub-basement are the machine shops for the repair of the machinery 
ased. 

On the second floor are the draughting, destruction committee, numbering 
machine, examining, hydraulic press (202 tons pressure) rooms, also the stock 
vault 65x12 ft. of chilled steel and masonry and double doors with time and mag- 
net lock. 

On the third floor, banc plate press and wetting rooms. 

On x.\\& fourth floor (attic), dressing rooms, male in the E. end and females 
in the W. end. Also ventilators and fans. 

The tower is ascended by an iron spiral staircase : in the first landing is the 
tower clock, and above, a lookout. 

The boiler house in the rear, 2 stories high, contains rooms for the destruc- 
tion of defective bank-notes, furnace room and laundry. The building is heated 
by hot water, and ventilated by machinery. 



TREASURY DEPARTMENT. 



135 



OflSce of the Coast Survey, erected 1871 (rented), 
brick fire-proof, S. E. of the Capitol, on New Jersey av. 

This service, established in 1807, is charged with the survey of the coasts of 
the U. S. on tide water. The standard weights and measures are kept 
acre, from which standards are furnished to the different States. 

Secretaries of the Treasury and their Portraits.— In the south corridor 
of the second floor of the Department may be seen a collection of portraits 
of the Secretaries of the Treasury ; cost, ^500 each. 1789, Alexander 
Hamilton, N. Y., by Miss C. L. Ransom, 1880, after original in City Hall, 
New York; 1795, Oliver Wolcott, Jr., Conn., Richard M. Staigg, 1880, after 
Trumbull, 1806, for Josiah Quincy ; 1 801, Samuel Dexter, Mass., no portrait 
painted ; 1801, Albert Gallatin, Pa., Matthew Wilson, 1880, from family 
portrait; 1814, George W. Campbell, Tenu., no portrait painted ; 1814, A. J. 
Dallas, Pa., F. Thorp, 1880; 1816, Wm. H. Crawford, Ga., Henry Ulke, 

1879, after Huntington; 1825, Richard Rush, Pa., Mrs. C. Adele Fassett, 

1880, from family portrait ; 1829, Samuel D. Inghai.i, Pa., no portrait 
painted; 1831, Louis McLane, Del., no portrait painted ; 183^, W. J. Diiane, 
Pa., no portrait painted; 1833, Roger B. Taney, Md., Ulke, 1881, from 
photograph for Secretary Chase; 1834, Levi Woodbury, N. H., Henry A. 
Loop, 1880, after portrait from life; 1841, Thomas Ewing, Ohio, Wm, Garl 
Brown, 1879; 1841, Walter Forward, Pa., Thorp, 1 881, from family portrait; 
1843, John C. Spencer, N. Y., no portrait painted; 1844, Geo. M. Bibb, Ky., 
Ulke, 1880, from family portrait ; 1845. Robert J. Walker, Miss , Brown, 
1879 ; 1849, Wm. M. Meredith, Pa., no portrait painted : 1850, Thomas Corwin, 
Ohio, J. H. Witt, 1880 : 1853, James Guthrie, Ky., E. F. Andrews, 
1S80; 1857, Howell Cobb, Ga., no portrait painted ; i860, Philip F. Thomas, 
Md., no portrait painted; 1861, John A. Dix, N. Y., no portrait painted; 
1861, Salmon P. Chase, Ohio, Ulke, 1880, from water color from life; 1864, 
Wm. P. Fessenden, Me., Frederick P. Vinton, 1880, after family portrait, 
1865, Hugh McCuUough, Ind., no portrait painted; 1869, Geo. P. Boutwell, 
Mass., no portrait painted; 1873, Wm. A. Richardson, Mass., Richard M. 
Staigg, 1880, from life ; 1874, Benjamin H. Bristow, Ky., no portrait painted; 
1876, Lot M_. Morrill, Me., A. H. Bicknell, 1880, from life; 1877. John 
Sherman. Ohio, no portrait painted ; 1881, Wm. Windom. Minn. 1B81. Charles 

T. Folger, N. Y. 

History of the 
Departm e nt . — 

The Department 
of the 1 reasury 
was organized by 
Congress Sept. 2, 
1789, with a Secre- 
tary of the Treas- 
ury, tx officio a 
member of the 
President's Cabi- 
net, as its chief 
officer. He has 
charge of the col- 
lection of the reve- 
nue, disbursements 
of money, makes 
estimates of reve- 
nues and expendi- 
tures for Congress, 
for approprations, 
reports information 
to Congress, and 
performs all ser- 
■ vices relative to the 
^nances. 




136 WAR DEPARTMENT. 



WAR DEPARTMENT. 



The War Department {open every day, Sundays excepted, from 
9 a, m. to 2 p. m.) occupies the N. wing of the vast edifice erec- 
for the accommodation of the Departments of State, War and 
Navy. ( For description see page 127.) 

Objects of Interest. — Visitors to the Building can enter any 
of the apartments, simply to view them, by permission of the chief 
clerk or the ushers at the door. 

The basement, reached from the sidewalk contains nothing of 
special interest. The sub-basement, reached by the centre main 
steps, contains the machinery for the elevators, pumps, heating 
and ventilating apparatus, boilers, coal vaults and store rooms. 

The mabz entrance to the Building is on the N. This wing is 
the counterpart of the S. wing, measuring 292' front and 93'.6" 
deep. It was commenced May 22, 1879, and finished Dec. 23, 
1882; cost, $1,912,351. 

The Headqztartcrs cf the Army are on the corridor of the firs 
floor E. of the main entrance. Here will be found an interestm 
collection of Do.traits of Commanders in-chief of the Armies, als 
of distinguished Generals, sketches of frontier life, and Forbes 
pen and ink sketches of the war. 

On the second floor, N. corridor, are the apartments of the 
Secretary of War; here will be found an exceedingly interesting 
collection of portraits of Secretaries of War and distinguished 
MiHtary Ofiicers. (See page 138 ) 

On the third floor (No. 69) is the War Department Library, 
comprising 16,000 volumes. The rest of this wing of the build- 
ing is occupied by the Administrative Bureaus. 



Ill 




138 WAR DEPARTMENT. 

The Second Floor (Room 93). The office of the Secretary of War and re. 
ception room adjoining, constitute a beautiful suite of apartments artistically 
finished in encaustic and oil, and luxuriously furnished. Here is a valuable 
and interesting collection of portraits of the Secretaries of War from the 
foundation of the Government, cost $305 each, and painted authority Congress. 

Secretary of War, 1789, Henry Knox, of Massachusetts, portrait by 

Youi^, after Charles Gilbert Stuart ; 1795, Timothy Pickering, of Massachu- 
setts, by Edwin Bracket, after Stuart; 1796, James McHenry. of Maryland, 
by Daniel Huntingdon, after Pollock ; 1800, Samuel Dexter, of Massa- 
chusetts, by Bracket ; iSoi, Roger Griswold, of Connecticut, no portrait painted; 
1801, Henry Dearborn, of Massachusetts, by Huntingdon, after Stuart; 1809, 
William Eustis, of Massachusetts, by Bracket ; 1813, John Armstrong, of New 
York, by Huntingdon, after John Vanderlyn ; 1814, James Monroe, of Virginia, 
by Robert W. Weir; 1815, Alexander J. Dallas, of Pennsylvania, ad interim, 
by Ph. Morton ; 1815, William H. Crawford, of Georgia, by Huntington, after 
John Wesley Jarvis ; 1817, George Graham, of Virginia, ad interim, by Hun- 
tington, after Charles King; 1817, John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina, by 
Jarvis ; 1825, James Barbour, of Virginia, by Henry Ulke ; 1828, Peter B. 
Porter, of New York, by Huntington, after Weir; 1829, John H. Eaton, 0/ 
Tennessee, by Weir ; 1831, Lewis Cass, of Michigan, by Huntington, after 
George Peter, Alexander Healy ; 1836, Benjamin F. Butler, of New York, 
ad interim, by Weir; 1837, Joel Poinsett, of South Carolina, by Weir, after 
Thomas Sully; 1841, John Bell, of Tennessee, by T.L.Clear; 1841, John 
McLean, of Ohio, no portrait painted ; 1841, John C. Spencer, of New York, 
by Weir; 1843, James M. Porter, of Pennsylvania, by Huntington; 1844, 
William Wilkins, of Pennsylvania, by Weir ; 1845, William L. Marcy, of New 
York, by Ulke ; 1849, George W. Crawford, of Georgia, by Huntington ; 1850, 
General Winfield Scott, aa? z«2f^rz;«, army, by Weir ; 1850, Charles M. Con- 
•ad, of Louisiana, by Huntington ; 1853, Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, by 
Huntington ; 1857, John B. Floyd, of Virginia, by Huntington ; 1861, Joseph 
Holt, of Kentucky, by Weir; 1861, Simon Cameron, of Pennsylvania, by 
Henry Thorpe ; 1862, Edwin M. Stanton, of Ohio, by Weir; 1867, U. S. Grant, 
ad interim^ 3ixva.y , by Ulke; 1868, General Lorenzo Thomas, ad interim, 
army, no portrait painted ; 1868, John M. Schofield, of Illinois^ by H. P. Cur- 
tis ; 1869, John A. Rawlins, of Illinois, by Weir ; 1869, W.' T. Sherman, 
pro tetnpore, army, by Healy ; 1869, William W. Belknap, of low.i, by Hun- 
tington; 1876, A. Taft, of Ohio, by Huntingdon; 1876, James D. Cameron, 
of Pennsylvania, by Huntington ; 1877, George W. McCrary, Iowa, by Ulke; 
1879, Alexander Ramsey, of Minnesota. 1881, Robert T Lincoln,Ill. 

Private Secretary's Room (92 ). Portraits of General George Rogers Clarke, 
of Virginia, by Peter Bomgrass ; i860. General Clarke's occupation of the 
North-western Territory, secured by the treaty of 1783, the boundary line of 
the Great Lakes instead of the Ohio River ; General Horatio Gates, of New 
York, President of the Board of War; 1777, by Huntington, General George 
Washington, Commander in Chief of the Continental Army ; 1775, by Hunting- 
ton, after Stuart, General Benjamin Lincoln, of Massachusetts, Secretary of 
War; 1781, a copy of Sergeant's head, by J. A. Young ; General John Arm- 
strong, of Pennsylvania, by Huntington, after Vanderlyn ; General Winfield 
Scott, Secretary of War, ad interiin, 1850. 

In the Chief Clerk's Room is a collection of twelve small paintings of spirit, 
by G. H. Walker, representing the campaign against the City of Mexico. 

Third Floor (Room 116). The Library, comprising 25,000 volumes, mostly 
on military subjects, and a selected list of miscellaneous works and military 
maps. The cases were designed by H. T. Crosby, Chief Clerk. It also con- 
tains many rare and valuable manuscripts relating to the military history of 
the country. 

Fourth Floor Nothing of special interest. 



WAR DEPARTMENT. 



13J> 



Other places of interest under the VVar Department, as 
the Arsenal, Medical and Ordnance Museums, the hitter in 
Winder's Building, will be found under appropriate heads. 
In the Flag Rooms, No. 616 17th street, opposite the War 
Department {open from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m. daily, except Sunday) ^ 
are the battle-torn United States and State flags taken from 
the national forces and recovered upon the capture of 
Richmond, and captured Confederate flags. They repre- 
sent every State. 

Signal Office. — ( 0/>en every day, except Sunday, yrofti 12 a. ni. to 3^. ;«.) 
The Chief Signal Officer of the Armj', under who-^e direction the national 
weather observations are made, occupies two contiguous brick buildings on. 
G street, W. of the War Department. The wires entering the building con- 
nect the office with the different stations, in all parts of the country, through the 
lines of the general telegraphic companies. 

The entrance for visitors 'm, by the door No. 1719. Ascend to the Jnstru- 
tnent Room, in the fourth story. Here may be seen the apparatus employed", 
in the various meteorological observations, including the barometer for atmos- 
pheric pressure, and to indicate the passage of storms ; the thermometer , 
mercurial and spirit, for temperature ; the hygrometer, humidity ; the anem- 
ometer, for velocity of the wind ; the ivind-vane, or anemoscope , for direction 
of the wind ; and ratn gauge, for rain-fall. 

On the roof of the builaing are. rain-gauges, wind-vanes, and anemometers, 
with self-registering instruments in room below. There is a complete set of self- 

On Nov. I, 1870, at 7 35 a. m.. the first systematized synchronous meteoric 
reports ever taken in the United States were read from the instruments by the 
observer sergeants of the signal service at 24 stations, and placed upon the tele- 
graphic wires for transmission. In Oct., 1871, the display of cautionary sig- 
nals was inaugurated at ports on the Atlantic and the Gulf coast and the north- 
ern lakes. The sphere of usefulness of this important service is annually ex- 
tended. 
History of the 

Depar t m e n t : — 

Prior to i 789 the Sec- 
retary of War was 

charged with the di- 
rect management ol 

the military affairs of 

Congress. The office 

was created an ex 

ecutive department 

August 7, 1789. The 

Secretary was then 

required to execute 

the orders of the 

President of the 

United States in all 

matters respecting 

military, naval or 

Indian affairs. I'he 

Secretary of War is 

now restricted uu- 

der tne direction of 

the President to 

jurisdiction over 

the military service 

only. He is ex oj- 

/Icio a member of 

the Cabinet. 




140 NAVY DEPARTMENT. 

NAVY DEPARTMENT. 

The Navy Department {open every day, except Sunday ^ 
from 9 a. w. to 3 p. m.) occupies the south half of the east 
connecting wing of the State, War and Navy Department 
Building. (jPbr description of the g.eneral building see page 
127, and for east wing page 138.) The Naval Observatory. 
Navy Yard and Marine Barracks are described under their 
appropriate heads. The Nautical Almanac office for the 
computation of astronomical tables for the Observatory 
the Navy and Merchant service, established 1849, at Cam 
pridge, Mass., and removed to Washington, 1866, is also 
in quarters away from the Department. 

Objects op Interest in the Building : 

Basetnent. — In the Hydrographic office where charts are made and the depot 
of all hydrographic information for the use of the navy and commerce, is the 
largest chart printing press in the United States. The sub-basement, entered 
from the middlestairs, contains the machinery,heating and ventilating apparatus. 

The First Floor contains Bureau offices. 

On the Second Floor (Room 97) is the Office of the Secretary of the NaTfy, 
a magnificent apartment with Marquetry floor, walls finished in gilt and colors 
in the Greek style of decoration ; furnishings very rich. The chief clerk's 
office adjoining is also a fine room. 

The Third Floor is devoted to the Bureaus of the Department. 

On the Fourth Floor is the Library in the centre pavilion, the walls, ceil- 
ings, gallery-flooring, wainscoting and cases of cast iron, and floor encaustic 
tiles. The panels in the walls consist of marbles, the red being Griotte, the 
green, Alpine; the yellow, Sienna, and the chocolate. Lake Champlain, (Vt.) 
The niches are finished in bronze, cast iron plates, and in each are artistic gas 
brackets, in pure bronze, cast 1880, by Bureau Brothers and Heaton, of 
Philadelphia, in the first story the figures representing Science., IVar, Industry 
and Liberty, those in the gallery being allegorical of the Navy. 

The dome or skylight overhead consists of heavy iron frames, and white and 
colored glass. The arrangement is in two stories with a gallery and archways 
on the N. and S. sides leading to the alcoves for books and hand elevators. 

Fifth Floor. In the center pavilion the door leads to the gallery of the 
Library. Overhead is a beautiful skylight of iron and colored glass. The 
grand stairways of six flights each, four being geometrical, lead from the attic 
to the sub-basement, are wonders of construction, no two steps being alike, and 
being let into the wall 16 inches, and firmly wedged, forming a cantilever. The 
bronze balusters, 1106 in number, cast by the Hopkins and Dickinson Manu- 
facturing Co., cost $5.50 each, and are exceedingly fine. The hand rails and 
newel posts, are massive and rich in finish, being mahoganyfrom CentralAmerica. 

All the corridor floors are tiled in alternate white and black marble from 
Swanton, Vt The upper landings are black marble from Glen Falls, N, Y. 

Secretaries of the Navy. — The War Departinent had charge of Naval 
aflTairs until 1798. 1798, George Cabot, Mass., declined; 1798, Benjamin Stod- 
dert, Md. ; 1801, Robert Smith, Md. ; 1805, Jacob Crowninshields, Mass. ; 
1809, Paul Hamilton, S. C. ; 1813, William Jones, Pa. ; 1814, Benjamin W. 
Crowninshields, Mass. ; 1818, S.Tiith Thompson, N. Y. ; 1823, John Rogers, 
Mass. ; 1823, Samuel L. Southard, N. J. ; 1829, John Branch, N. C. ; 1831, Levi 
'Woodbury, N. H ; 1834, Mahlon Dickerson, N. J.; 1838, James K. Pauld- 
ing, N. Y. ; 1841, G. E, Badger, N. C ; 1841, A. P. Upshur, Va. ; 1843, David 
Henshaw, Mass.; 1844, T. W. Gilmer, Va. ; 1844, J. Y. Mason, Va. ; 1845, 
• 3eorge Bancroft, Mass. ; 1846, John Y. Mason, Va, ; 1849, W. B. Preston Va. 
1850, W. A. Graham, N C; 1852, J. B. Kennedy, Md.; 1853, J. C. Dobbin, 
N. C.; 1857, Isaac Toucey, Conn.; 1861, Gideon Welles, Conn.; 1869, A. E. 
Borie, Pa.; i86g, G. M. Robeson, N. J.; 1877. Richard W. Thompson, Ind.r 
1880, Nathan Goff, Jr.; 1881, Wm. H. Hunt. La. 



Ill 



" mi 




■illliiillt'iiilifl 



14- 



2>(AVi JJKPAiiiAAJi^Hr. 




.1 

History of *rie 
Department. — 
Until April, 1798, 
the naval service 
was under the War 
Department. Then 
it was given a sep- 
arate organization, 
and the chief offi- 
cer, who IS ejtr offi- 
cio a member of the 
President's Cabi- 
net, was called the 
Secretary of the 
Navy. He was 
required to execute 
all the orders of the 
President affecting 
the naval establish- 
ment and marine 
corps. In 1862 the 
Bureaus of the De- 
partment were or- 
ganized, and all the 
details of adminis- 
tration under the 
Secretary of the 
Navy are per- 
formed by them. 



DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. 



This department (open every day, except Sunday, from 9 a. 
m. to 3 p. m.) occupies offices in the vast structure known 
as the Patent Office. (For description see page 144.) 

Objects of Intbrest (Main Floor).— The Office of the Secretary o/ the 
Interior, at the south end of the E. corridor, a fine apartment containing a 

Collection of Crayons of the Secretaries of the Interior, by Henry Ulke, ol 
Washington, i88i, ^loo each, and oil paintings of Secretaries Thomas Ewing, 
of Ohio, and Caleb B. Smith, of Ind., by J. M. Stanley, 1861,^100 each, the 
Office of tfie Lommtssioner of Patents, on the N. corridor, where will be 
found a set oi engravings of the Commissioners, including a portrait of Dr. 
William Thornton of Penn., designer of the original plan of the Capitol, and 
Superintendent of Patents in the State Department, 1803-1827. A very valu- 
able portrait oi Robert Fulton, of Penn., one of the inventors of the steam- 
boat, and painted by himself; Fulton studied under Benjamin West, of Penn., 
president of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, London. Also 8 artist proof 
engravings oi celebrated inventors from original paintings in the collection 
of and presented by B. Woodcroft, of the Great Seal Patent Office, London. 
The Department Library, on the N. corridor, containing over 6,000 volumes 
for the use of employees in the building ; the Patent Office Library on the S. 
corridor, containing over 7,000 volumes bearing upon the mechanic and useful 
aits, and for reference in the library room, and the Indian Office where some- 
times may be seen the representatives of Indian nations, who have been 
brought to the Capitol in connection with negotiation of treaties or business 
arising under them. The remaining offices in the building possess no par- 
ticular interest to the general visitor. For description of Model Museum see 
page 147. 

Bureau of Education. — {Open every day, except Sunday, 
from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) — Occupies a rented building on the 
.NE. corner of G and 8th sts. NW. 



U. S PENSION BUILDING. 



'43 



of educational works, and other objects of interest in the promo- 

:.o». ci education. 

History of th-. 
Departm e n t .- 
The act of March 
3, 1849, created th. 
Department of th.- 
Interior, the hear 
of which was to h- 
called the Secreta 
ry of the Interior 
and is ej: officio 
member of the Cab 
met. He is charge- 
with affairs relatini, 
to the Territories o 
the United States, 
patents, publi 
lands, pensions 
Indians, census 
education, and th« 
beneficiary asy 
lums in the Districi 
of Columbia be 
longing to the Gov 
ernment. 




THGE U. S. PENSION BUILDING 



The massive and imposing structure known as the U. S. 
Pension Building, occupies the northern portion of Judiciary 
Square, fronting on F and G Sts. N., and 4th and 5^1 Sts. W., 
and may be reached by the Mttropohtan and Belt Lines of Horse 
Cars, leaving the former at the corner of F and 5th Sts., 
and the latter at the corner of G and 4th Sts., n. w. 

Entrances: — There are four entrance Gates one in the middle 
of each front as follows : 

North (G St.) The Gate of The InvaUds. 

South (F St. ) The Gate of The Line. 

East (4th St.) The Naval Gate. 

WEST(5diSt.) The Gate of The Staff. 

Building — (Exterior.) The building is in the renaissance 
eXylQ of the Roman Pala^res, and was designed by Gen. M. C. 
Meigs, U. S. A., Superintending Engineer and Architect, late 
Quartermaster- General U. S. A. It differs from other public 
edifices in the city in its simplicity of plan and details. It consists 
of a building 42' wide and three stories high surrounding a Roman 
Cortile or court yard. The entire structure is 400' from E. to W., 
and 200' from N- to S., constructed of brick, terra cotta and iron. 

To the cornice it is 75', and to the ridge of the central roof 
covering the Cortile 149' in height. The ground plan covers 



144 



U. S PENSION BUILDING. 



80,000 sq. ft. or nearly 2 acres. The extent of the unbroken 
facades, which unlike other public buildings in the city preserve 
but a single alignment, gives the building a dignity, which is not 
frittered away in a multitude of details. The windows are dec- 
trated with pilasters supporting regular entablatures, cornices and 




THE U. S. PENSION BUILDING. 

[ The scene of the Grand Ball in honor of the Inatiguration of 
Grover Cleveland, President of the United States, March 4, 1885. J 

pediments in the two upper stories. In the lower story a hori- 
zontal cornice alone supported by consoles and molded architraves 
crowns the windows. The pilasters, cornices, consoles and 
other ornamentations of the windows are executed in terra 
cotta, pressed and molded brick and the exterior wall is faced 
with the molded brick in red mortar. The long unbroken lines 
of windows as separated by molded belt courses of brick and terra 
;otta at each story, The entire outer walls are surmounted by a 
ieep cornicione executed in molded brick and terra cotta decorated 
svith rosettes and lion't heads and supporting a copper eave- 
nrough or gully. The belt course or frieze at the level of the 
second story is 3' high and 1,200' long executed in terra cotta by 
.he Boston Terra Cotta Company, from designs by C. Buberl, 
md represents a marching column about one fourth of a mile in 
ictual length including all the branches of the line and staff of the 
irmy in campaign, and also a detachment of sailors in boats. 
The different divisions are marked by the sculptures, over the 
main gates or entrances to the Cortile, as the South, the Line, West, 
the Staff and Department of Supply, North, the Invalids and 
East, the Navy. These are extremely interesting. 
The roof consists of an iron frame to be constructed by the 



U S PENSION BUILDINGi. I45 . 

Pittsburgh, Pa., Bridge Co., covered with hollow terra cotta tiles 
4'' thick, 2' long and i' wide. These tiles are incombustible and 
good non conductors. They take the place of ordinary plank 
sheathing of roof frames and will be covered with sheet metal. 
The iron work of the roof of the lower parts of the building weighs 
137 tons and that over the Cortile 317 tons. 

Interior. — The interior of the building is an Italian Cortile or 
court yard, excepting that it is roofed and thus converted into a grand 
hall 3i6'xii6' and 120' high. This central hall is surrounded by 
arcaded galleries resting on two tiers of columns 152 in number 
supporting molded arches. The lovi^er columns are Doric and 
constructed of terra cotta blocks covered and finished with 
cement and the upper Ionic of cast iron thus forming three 
stories within, first 20', second 22'9" ard third 19' high, and open- 
ing into rooms of the same height and of standard size 26'x37'. 
The centre of the hall is separated from the ends by two open 
screens formed of two rows, each f.ur columns 75' tall and 7^' 
in diameter, with molded and enriched terra cotta bases, and 
a brick shaft surmounted hy elaborate Corinthian capitols, from 
the order of the Temple of the Parthenon in Rome, which carry 
the upper portion a"hd roof of the central hall. The columns stand 
on a concrete foundation 1 7' deep. This hall is lighted by clear-story 
windows above the roof of the third-story office rooms of the ex- 
terior building. 

The galleries overlooking the grand hall and from which the 
office rooms are entered, are readied by four wide stairways near 
each entrance and two elevators. 

The corridor on the ground floor and the galleries are 12' wide, 
and open into the office rooms, wnich number 107. In some cases 
the rooms are connected by wide arches, making apartments 
37'x52' and 37'x78' in size The floors of the galleries and rooms 
are arched in brick, and the parapets of the former are of neat 
design. There are 166,000 sq. ft. of floor space and accommodations 
for 1,500 clerks. The building will on ceremonial occasions, 
conveniently accommodate 12,000 persons and if closely packed 
59,000 persons can be contained within. 

Under the South and one-half of the East and West fronts are 
cellars and vaults arched with brick, for machinery, boilers, heating 
app ratus, coal, &c. The smoke stack connected with this part 
of the building is 86' high. 

Cost. — The cost of the building completed is $700,000. The A. 
Aug. 7, 1882, appropriated $250,000; Mar. 3,1883, $153,000 
and $40,000, for healing and ventilating, and July 7, 1884, 
$266,559. 

In the construction of the building there were used 15,000,000 
bricks, pressed and common, 200 tons of iron in beams, ties and 
clamps, besides the iron of the roof- and 40,000 lbs. of metallic 
paint, brown and Venetian red in coloring the mortar. The 



146 



U S. PENSION BUILDING. 



terra cotta work over the doors and enriched bases of columns 
were executed by the A. Hall Company, of Perth Amboy, N. J. 
This is the first building of this plan ever attempted in the 
U. S. As the rooms occupy ihc entire width of the building they 
have light and air from both sides The dark, and often, noisome 
corridors of other buildings of the 
from the p'o.n. 



city are completely excluded 




SECTION OF FRIEZE, BY THE BOSTON TERRA COTTA COMPANY. 

History. — The A. Aug. 7. 1882, (Sundry Civil) appropriated 
$250,000, for the erection of " a brick and metal fire-proof building 
to be occupied by the Pension Bureau," and fixed as its loca- 
tion, the open space on B St. at the intersection of Ohio and 
Louisiana Aves. This site was found unsafe on account of hav- 
ing once been the basin of the old Washington Canal, now filled, 
The present site was then selected. Ground was broken Kov. 2, 
1882. A portion of the first floor rooms were ready for occupancy 
in Sept., 1884. The Building will be completed by 1886. 



PATENT OFFICE BUILDING. 147 



THE U. S. PATENT OFFICE. 

The Patent Office occupies two squares, extending from 7th to 
9th and F to G Sts., n. w. It may be reached by the Metropohtan 
Horse R. R The 7th.st. branch of the W. & G. R. R. pass it 
on the E. (Open every day except Sundays, from 9 a. m. to 4 
p.m ) 

Entrances : — The main entrance is on F St., and fronts 8th St. 
There are entrances however, in the other fronts. (See page 
137 for engraving.) 

Building. — This immense pile, situated on the Reservation set 
apart in the old plan of the city for the National Church or Mau- 
soleum, is pure Grecian Doric, of massive proportions, and meas- 
sures 453' from E. to W. and 331' from N. to S., including the 
projections of the portico, and has an elevation of 75', sur- 
mounted by an acroteria. The building which encloses an interior 
quadrangle 265'xi35', contains 191 rooms, and cost $3,000,000. 
The Reservation (8) upon which it stands embraces 4^ a., and 
the structure itself covers 2^ a. 

The original structure, S. Wing begun, in 1837, and finished in 
1842, 270' front on F St. and 79 deep, or 150' including the S. 
portico and N. apse, is built of freestone from the Government 
quarries at Aquia Creek. It was- designed by W. P. Elliott, 
(Elliott & Town, engineers,) and executed by Robert Mills. The 
E. Wing was authorized in 1849, commenced by Robert Mills, 
who was succeeded in 185 1, by Edward Clark, then assistant and 
later Architect of the Capitol, who completed this wing in 1854-5. 
The W. Wing commenced in 1849-50, suspended in i85o,re- 
sumedin i853,was finished in 1859. The N. W ing was commenced 
in 1857, and the exterior finished in i860, and interior in 1864-6, 
The S. Poriico was erected in 1842, and the N. Portico in 1868, 
thus completing the building The E. Wing was occupied by 
the Secretary of the Interior in 1853. The new portions are of 
Maryland marble on the exterior and New England granite on the 
quadrangle. The original building is painted white to harmonize 
with the wings The edifice rests on a sub-base of granite, above 
which is a basement of the material of the superstructure, after 
which rises the order, pierced with two stories of windows, the 
whole surmounted by an acroteria to correspond with the earlier 
portion of the structure. The exterior is entirely without display. 

Interior. — From the main portico a door opens into a spacious 
vestibule, with an trched ceiling groined on 8 Doric columns and 
10 pilasters. On the r. and 1. runs a corridor, which extends en- 
tirely around the main floor of the building, and upon which open 
the various offices. The Fatent Office Library is W. of the 
main entrance, authorized by A., 1843, and now numbers 20,000 
volumes relating to the mechanic and useful arts, and for reference. 



148 PATENT OFFICE BUILDING. 

Museum of Models. — {Open every day, except Sundays and 
holidays^ from 9 a. m. to 4 /. m.) This interesting collection of 
American and Foreign inventions, patented under the laws of the 
United States, embraces upwards of 200,000 models, accumulated 
since the fire of 1836. Each case contains an Index Card. 



Entrance and South Hall. — This hall of the Museum of 
Models is approached from the main vestibule of the S. entrance 
to the building, by a double flight of stairs in the apse, which is 
richly decorated. Over the main portal at the head of the stairs, 
is a heavily molded pediment and cornice of white cement in imi- 
tation of marble. The main door opens into an Entrance Hall, 
4o'x62' and 33' high to a paneled ceiling, and leads to the four 
Model Halls, 1,062' in length by 62' in width. The S. Hall is 
264' 2,%" in length. The decoration of this hall consists of 16 
pilaSiCrs in Doric renaissance, surmounted by carved consoles, 
ornamental friezes and enriched cornices, supporting a molded 
ceiling paneled in a variety of forms and having an octagonal 
skylight of 20' diameter, glazed within a wide border of colored 
glass* with obscured and embossed plate-glass in the centre. All 
details, enrichments and ornaments of the ceiling are plastic and re 
lieved by carefully blended subdued tints and chaste gilding. The 
bases of the pilasters are executed in black and antique green pol- 
ished marbles ; the pedestals in Tennessee, the fluted shafts in poli 
jshed Sienna, the capitals in flat, veined Italian, Keene's Cement- 



PATENT OFFICE BUILDING. 



149 



scagliola. In the spaces below the cornices on the N. and S. 
Walls are 6 bassi relievi, each 5'6"x9'5" modeled by C. Buberl, 
and excecuted in Keene's White Cement, representing : S. Wall, 
centre. Industry and Invention, right, Mining, left, Agriculture and 
N. Wall ; over the Main Door, Electricity and Magnetism r. Wa'er 
and 1. Fire. 

To the E. and W, this hall discloses, through ]arge open arch- 
ways between the pilasters, a view mto ihe corridors, open to the 
skylight and 18' wide, and the offices 12' high, 22' wide, 450' long, 
and into the galleries forming the Model Halls. A second gallery 
of limited width is carried around the four walls. Approached 
from this second gallery is a fire-proof hall 96'x32' over the main 
portico on F St. A paneled wainscoting in black, antique red 
and green polished marbles girds the main hall and encloses a 
decorated floor of original designs, executed by the U. S. Encaustic 
Tile Company of Indianapolis, Ind. 




EAST HALL MODEL MUSEUM. 

The reconstruction of this Hall of fire-proof material began on 
\.pril 12. 1883. The entire interior and roof were taken out, and 
reconstructed In their present form from designs prep red by 
Cluss & Schulze, Architects and Engineers of the work. The cost 
of the reconstruction of the S Hall was $175,000. 

East Hall —The S. Hall opens into the E. Hall, 271' 
long and 63^' w.de. The groined arches of the celing rest 
upon 28 marble piers and a req I'ts-te 1. umber 1 f paLsters. 



150 PATENT OFHOE. 

The North and West Halls, respectively 266x59^ ft. and 
271x64 ft.,the interiors destroyed by fire, originating among 
old documents stored over the 9th st. front, September 24, 
1877 ; were reconstructed at a cost of $250,000, 1879-80, by 
AdolphCluss and Paul Schulze, architects, from plans ap- 
proved by a commission. The design consists of a centre 
nave 30 ft. high, and two aisles, introducing ornamental 
massive piers, forming aesthetically correct sub-divisions 
of the fire-proof galleries, in 2 tiers. A continuous sky- 
light of hammered glass, by Edward A. Boyd, of N. Y., 
extends over the naves. The interior work is of iron, 1000 
tons being used, furnished by the Phoenix Iron Company 
of Trenton, N. J., galvanized iron furnished by D. W. 
Stockstill & Co., and Robert Boyd, of Washington, D. C, 
and ornamental work in Keene's fire-proof cement. The 
floors of the galleries are slate from the North Peach Bot- 
tom Slate Company, of Philadelphia. The two halls con- 
tain 5000 lineal feet of fire-proof model cases, 4 ft. wide and 
8J ft. high. The glass fronts of these cases aggregate 3^ 
miles in length, 8^ ft. high, and would cover If acres. 
The fluted glass shelves, \ in. thick, would cover If a.; The 
roof is of copper, by Pope & Cole, of Baltimore, Md. The 
old halls were covered with a paneled ceiling, resting on 
immense iron girders of a single reach. 

History. — The patent Office of the United States, where models of all inrcn- 
tions patented since the fire of 1836 are carefully preserved for reference and exhibi- 
tion, is an institution without an equal in the world, and speaks more for the high 
character and practical basis of the American mind than could be expressed in vol- 
ames of written history or description. We are able here to trace, in practical 'detail, 
the progress of mechanical arts in the United States, since 1836, and but for the un-. 
fortunate destruction of the early models, this same interesting investigation could 
be carried back to the beginning of the Government. The first legislation in Con- 

The rapid increase in the number of inventions early led Congress into special 
provisions for the accommodation of the Patent Office. In 1810 the erection or pur- 
chase of a suitable building for the use of the General Post Office and keeper of the 
patents and arrangement of the models was authorized. Under this authority a 
structure known as Blodgett's Hotel, on the E. st side of the present site of the Gen- 
eral Post Office, was secured. Up to 1820 all applications for patents were exam- 
ined by a clerk in the office of the Secretary of State. In that year Dr. Tho-rnton, 
appointed by President Jefferson to issue patents, took upon himself the title of 
Superintendent of the Patent Office. Under the act of July 4, 1836, the Patent 
Office was created a separate bureau in the Department of the Interior, and its chic, 
officer received the title of Commissioner of Patents. 

On Dec. 15, 1836, the building then occupied was completely consumed by fire, 
and among the losses were the models accumulated during a half century, and num- 
bering upwards of 4,cxx>. This was an irreparable calamity. After the fire the busi- 
ness of the bureau was transacted in the City Hall, now the District Court House, 
and remained there until it was removed to its present edifice. 

The first patent was issued to Samuel Hopkins on July }l, 1790, "for makinp 
pot or pearl ashes." Total number patents issued to 1881, 250,000, and nearly 
an equal number of models. Annual increase, 13,000. Loss of models in fire, 
X877, 80,000. The surplus receipts of office are annually 5200,000. The cost 
of this massive building was largely paid for out of this surplus. 



GENERAL POST OFFICE. 



J51 




NORTH AND WEST HALLS MODEL MUSEUM, PATENT OFFIB. 

GENERAL POST OFFICE. 

The General Post Office {open every day^ except Sunday^ 
from 9 a.m. to dp. m.) stands opposite the Patent Office, 
on F St., and covers the square between 7th and 8th sts. W. 
and E and F sts. jST. It may be reached by the F-st. hors* 
cars from, the E. and W., and those on 7th st. from the N. 
and S. parts of the city. 

The Building occupied by the General Post Office is Cor- 
inthian. The E St. portion was commenced in 1839, and 
finished by Robert Mills, architect, and constructed of marble 
from New York quarrios. In 1842 Congress pnrchased the 



152 GENERAL POST OFFICE. 

K. half of the square to F st., and in 1855 the extension ot the 
building over that space was executed by Captain M. C. 
Meigs, United States Engineers, superintendent, and Edward 
Clark, assistant, from designs by T. U. Walter, architect of 
the Capitol, and was built out of Maryland marble. As thus 
completed, the building measures 300 ft. N". and S., and 204 
ft. E. and W., and has two stories, resting on a rustic base- 
ment, below which are vaults. In the centre is a court 194 
ft. long by 95 ft. wide. The fa9ades are of white marble. 
The court is faced with granite. Above the basement rise 
the various features of the order, including monolithic col- 
umns and pilasters, with beautifully-worked capitals, the 
whole extending through two stories, upon which rest the 
architrave, frieze, and cornice, crowned by a paneled acro- 
teria. The main front is on E st. The S. or main entrance 
is in the basement, reached by marble steps, and is formed 
of two Doric columns, one on eitlier side, and opens into a 
vestibule, on the r. and 1. of which are corridors, leading to 
marble staircases to the upper stories. Over this entrance 
are four attached columns of the Corinthian order. The E. 
front is broken by a central projection of six columns, the 
outer ones being coupled; and on either side, towards the 
extremities of this front, is a smaller projection of four at- 
tached columns, coupled. Beneath the central projection is 
a vestibule, supported on four Doi-ic columns and four corner 
piers. The ceiling, walls, and floor are finished in white 
marble, and on either side is a niche. The W. front is the 
same as the E. A carriageway here opens into the court, 
where the mails are received and despatched. Th keystone 
of the arch of this entrance is intended to represent Fidelity. 
On either side are figures in basso relievo^ symbolizing Steam 
and Electricity. 

The N. front presents a recessed portico, consisting of 8 
coupled columns resting on an arcade of rustic piers corres- 
ponding with the basement. There are entrances to the 
general office on the r. and 1. of the central arcade, and from 
which passages or steps lead to the corridors on the same floor 
or above. The corridors are on three sides only. The build- 
ing cost $1,700,000. 

Tlie Postmaster GeneraVs office is on the floor above the 
basement, S. side of S. corridor. Here may be seen a set of 
photographs of the Postmasters General. The Dead Letter 
office is on tlie N. side, entered from the N". end of the E. 
corridor through a passage or anteroom. 



GENERAL POST OFFICE. 



153 



The General Post Office originally occupied a building known as Blodgett's 
(Jnion Public Hotel, on the south half of the square now occupied by the De- 
partment, designed by James Hoban, architect of the Executive Mansion, 
I20 ft. long, 50 ft. wide, and 3 stories high, brick ornamented with freestone, 
commenced 1793, out of the proceeds of a lottery. The prize having been 
drawn by an orphan child, there were no means to finish the building. For a 
time it was used as a theatre, and its basement occupied by Irish and other 
emigrants. In \2i-io ihQ government purchased it . After the burning of the 
Capitol, Congress held one session in it. It was then occupied by the General 
and City Post Ojffices, Patent Office, and Library of Congress. The latter 
was removed to the Capitol in 1818. The building and contents were destroyed 
by fire Dec. 15, 1856. Private buildings were then occupied by those offices 
until the completion of the present structure. 

For engraving see page 141. 

In the Postmaster General's office is a fine collection of photographs and 
crayons of the Postmasters General. 



History of the General Post Office. — On Sept. 22, 1789, Congress cre- 
ated the temporary establishment of the Post Office. In 1792 a " General 
Post Office" was perma- 
nently established under 
direction of a Postmaster 
General, authorized to 
provide for carrying the 
mails of the United States 
"by stage carriages' or 
horses." From this prim- 
itive beginning the opera- 
tions of ttie General Post 
Office have expanded to a 
degree fully up to the 
requirements of the in- 
creased population and 
intelligence of the people. 

The Postmaster Gen- 
eral, appomted by the 
President, is ex officio a 
member of the Cabinet, 
but was not so recognized 
until President Jackson 
invited Postmaster Gen- 
eral Barry into the Cabi- 
net in 1829. 




:b4 



UKl'Airr.MKNT OF JUSTICE. 



DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE. 

The Department of Justice .open every day, except Sun- 
days from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.) occupies the upper floors of 
the fire-proof brick structure, with Seneca stone front, 
62'll''xll0', 4 stories high and mansard roof, on Pennsyl- 
vania Ave., bet. 15 and 15^ st., W. 

The building was erected 1870-1, by the Freedman's Savings and Trust Com- 
pany ; cost of building, $176,455; of ground, 186' 10" on Pennsylvania ave., and 
136' on 151^ St., $80,000. Purchased by authority of Congress, 1882, $250,000. 

Objects of Interest. — The Gallery of Paintings of the 
Attorneys General of the United States, is in the Attorney 
General's room, 




DKPAKIMENT OF JUSTICE. 

The Attorneys-General aud their Portraits. — In the ufifice of the At- 
torney-General is a fine collection of portraits of the Attorneys-General of the 
IJuited Slates. They maybe se^n by permission 0/ thd Attorney-General 



DEPARTMEJST OF JUSTICE. 



355 



1789, Edmund Randolph, of Va., portrait painted by James M. Stanley^ 
1856, from a family portrait, $50; 1794, Wm. Bradford, Pa., W. E. Winner^ 
1872,^200; 1795, Charles Lee, Va., Stanley, 1858, $60, from an original por- 
trait ; 1801, Levi Lincoln, Mass., name artist unknown; 1805, Robert Smithy 
Md., Freeman Thorp, 1873, ^750; 1805, John Breckenridge, Ky., A. J. Co-^ 
nant, 1864, $180 ; 1807, Caesar A, Rodney, Del., S. B. Waugh, 1870, $250; 
181 1, Wm. Pinkney, Md., Stanley, 1856, after Peale, $50 ; 1814, Richard, 
Rush, Pa., Thomas Sully, 1858, gioo; 18 17, Wm. Wirt, Va., Chas. B. King,. 
1857,^75; 1829, J, M. Berrien, Ga., John Maier, 1870, ^152; 1831, Roger 
B. Taney, Md., J. M. Campbell, 1856, $100; 1833, B. F. Butler, N. Y., Stan- 
ley, 1856, ^70 ; 1838, Felix Grundy, Tenn., G- Dury, 1858, ^75; 1840, H. D. 
Gilpin, Pa., J. R. Lambden, 1854, ;^6o ; 1841, J. J. Crittenden, Ky., Stanley 
1856, ^50; 1841, H S. Legare, S C, Stanley, 1858, ^60; 1843, John Nelson, 
Md., F. Thorp, 1872, fcoo ; 1845, John Y. Mason, Va., E. F. Andrews, 1880, 
$3So, after Sully; 1846, Nathan Clifford, Me., G. P. A. Healy, 1876, ^456; 
1848, Isaac Toucey, Conn.. Stanley, 1857, ^60; 1849, Reverdy Johnson, Md,, 
Stanley, 1856, ^50; 1850, J. J. Crittenden, Ky.,see 1841; 1853, Caleb Gushing, 
Mass., Stanley, 1857, $^°> after Carpenter; 1857, Jeremiah S. Black, Pa., Win- 
ner, 1872, ^500 ; i860, E. M. Stanton, Ohio, F. B. Carpenter, 1865, $200; 1861, 
Edward Bates, Mo., A. J. Conant, 1861, ^500; 1864, Jas. Speed, Ky., Healy, 
1865, ^250 ; 1866, Henry Stanberry, Ohio, Jared B. Flagg, 1869, $^°o ; 1868, 
O. H. Browning, III., no portrait painted ; 1868, Wm. M. Evarts, N. Y., 
W.M.Hunt, 1870,^750; 1869, Ebenezer C. Hoar, Mass., Hunt, 1870, $802 ; 
1870, Amos T, Ackerman, Ga., Thorp, 1875, ^500; 1872, Geo. H. Williams, 
Oregon, Thorp, 1875, ^750 ; 1875, Edwards Pierrepont. N. Y,, JJ. Hunting- 
ton, 1875, $1305 ; 1876, Alphonso Taft, Ohio, Thorp, 1877, S750; 1877, Chas. 
Devens, Mass., D. Huntington, i88i,$75o; 1881, Wayne MacVeagn, Pa.no 
portrait painted, 1881. 1882. Benjamin H. Brewster, Pa. 

The Court of Claims. — In the first story is the Court of Claims of the 
United States, occupied 1879, established 1855, to hear and determine all 
claims under acts of Congress or Executive Departments, or referred to it by 
them. From 1855 to 1879 '^ occupied rooms in the basement of the western 
central projection of the capitol. It consists of a chief and associate justices. 
The general sessions begin the first Monday in December. Adjournment 
usually in May or June. Fridays and Saturdays are devoted to writing up- 
opinions. 

History of the De- 
partment. — The office 
of Attorney General, 
created Sept. 24, 1789, 
was made an Executive 
Department by act of 
Congress June 22, 1870. 
All prosecutions on be- 
half of the Government 
are conducted by this 
department. The At- 
torney General reports 
annually to Congress. 
He gives opinions upon 
all questions of law, 
when asked by the Pres- 
ident or heads of the 
Executive Departments. 
He is ^jr officio a mem- 
ber of his Cabinet. 

Under him are the 
officers of the District 
and Circuit Courts of 
the United States, Me- 
tropolitan Police, etc. 




156 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



DEPARTMENT OF AGEICULTURE. 

The Department of Agriculture {open daily ^ except Sunday^ 
from 9a.m.toSp. m.) occupies that portion of the Mall lying 
E. of 14th St., and between the Washington Monument and 
the Smithsonian Institution. The building commands a view 
of the business quarter of the city, and in turn itself makes a 
fine appearance from 13th st. W., which it faces. 

Grounds.— The grounds in the immediate vicinity of the 
building are beautifully laid out. On the N. front is a con- 
creted surface the entire length of the building, and 50 ft. 
wide, which makes a spacious carriageway to the main en- 
trance, and is also used by pedestrians. A terrace wall 
about 4 ft. high, ornamented with stone balusters and pedi- 
ments with plant vases, runs the length and parallel with 
the front of the building, and at a distance of about 100 yds. 
At each extremity of the wall is a small iron pavilion of 
suitable design. The terrace divides what are known as the 
Upper and Lower Gardens. The former is laid out in beds, 
with intervening walks, and is devoted to flowers, vases, and 
rustic statuary. The lower, and all the grounds lying in 
front of the building line, with the exception of the flower 
garden, have been laid out as an arboretum^ with walks and 
drives, and a well-selected collection of the hardier trees and 
shrubs. The flower garden contains no shade trees, which 
afibrds an unbroken view of the building. The trees and 
plants in the arboretum are planted on strictly botanical 
rules, the order and tribe of plants being grouped. The 
effect, however, by careful arrangement of the blending 
types is peculiarly atttactive, and has not the formal appear- 
ance of a scientific classification. 

The collection embraces 1,600 species of plants. In the 
"ear of the department building and plant houses are the 
Experimental Grounds., covering about 10 a., those lying in 
the rear of the plant houses being set apart for experimental 
gardening, and those in the rear of the building, and occu- 
pying the SE . angle of the enclosure, for the experimental 
orchards and stables and yard. The object of these grounds 
is for testing varieties of small fruits, seeds, and for the prop- 
agation and culture of hardy plants. Along portion of the 
N. line of the grounds, commencing at the W., are artificial 
lakes., rivers^ and swamps, for the cultivation of type varieties 
of water and marsh plants. The plans for the grading and 
laying out of the grounds were prepared and carried inio 




m 



mm 



158 



DEPARTMENT OP AGRICULTURE. 



execution in 1868, by William Saunders, of Penn., Superin- 
tendent of Gardens and Grounds. (Also see Plant Houses.) 
The Department Building, designed by Adolph Cluss, ar- 
chitect, and completed in 1868, is of the renaissance style, 170 
ft. long by 61 ft. deep, with a finished basement, three full 
stories and Mansard roof. It was erected by contract, under 
the superintencence of the architect, is constructed of pressed 
brick, with brown-stone bases, belts, cornices, and trimmings, 
and cost, including apparatus for laboratory, $140,420. The 
front presents a centre building with main entrances, and is 
flanked by two wings. 




^ I 



BXPARTmNT OF AQBIOULTUBB— nSST FLOOB. 

A. Main Entrancb. — Deen, oak and ash woods. Vestibule^ 20 ft. square and 
16 ft. high. Floorsy encaustic tiles of chaste design. fTalls, paneled in encaustic 
paint. Ceilings, in frescoe, representing an arbor of vine foliage held by American 
eagles, with outspread wings. Ornamentation in arabesque, mingled with four 
medallions, illustrating, in landscape, light and shade and human figures, the foar 
seasons of the year, divisions of the day, and ages of man. 

B. Main Staircase leading to the secmd fiwr and Museum of Agriculture. 

C and D. Private Stairs to the second floor and passage to cloak rooms and eloseti. 
The vestibule (A) opens into a wide corridor, from which the various offices, 20 ft. 
square, are entered, 

1. Ante Room, finished in bird's eye maple and black walnut, in fanels, and 
represents a fine specimen of the application of wood to walls, known as ** wood- 
banging." 

2. Commissioner of AcRictn-TtmE, finished in panels of bird's eye maple, bor- 
dered by friezes in mahogany and blistered walnut, alternating with paneled 
pilasters in mahogany and satin wood, all parted by cnrley maple, and relieved br 
a tracing of gilt. 

3. Private Office of Commissioner. The friezes are of birch, borders of 
black walnut, and panels of mountain ash. 

4. Library, A tastef^illy finished apartment, supplied with mahogany cases. 
The collection of works, S,ooo vols., forms the most complete agricultural library in 
the United, States, and comprises nearly all the standard works on agriculture and 
kindred sciences, reporu of all the State boards of agriculture, and agricultural, horti- 
cokuial, and pomological societies, and the transactions of the leading agricultural 
ud «ale&tific Msodations of England, France, Cennanv, and Italy. The tbjeet tf 



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



159 



thi Llhrmry is for reference and used in the extensive correspondence of tlie Depart- 
ment. Persons interested are permitted to consult works, but not to take them 
from the room. Among the most intensting works is a set, 14 vols., on botany, 
illustrating the flora of Central Europe, published in Vienna, and presented by the 
Emperor of Austria. There are also portraits of a number of personages, among 
the number Marshall P. Wilder, of Boston, the distinguished horticulturist. 

5 to 8. Clerks' Rooms, finished in encaustic oil paint, plain, with frescoed 
ceilings. 

9. Chbmist and Microcopist Room, is supplied with cases containing a colUc- 
tion of minerals having an agricultural value. The chemist makes analyses of soils, 
fertilizers, and agricultural productions. The results are recorded for future refer- 
ence. The microscofist examines and reports upon the diseases of plants. 

10. Balance Room, contains a variety of balances used in the chemical work. 

11. Laboratory, supplied with chemicals and other apparatus used in chemical 
expeiiments. A private stairwaji lends to the basement below, in which are fur- 
nanCk-s, ovens, and other necessary conveniences. The equifmtnt of the Laboratory 
is vt.y complete. 

I*. File Room. 

13 and 14. Clerk's Room, finished in encaustic paint 




SEPAETMENT OF AGBICULTUBE, SECOND FLOOB. 



A. Stairs to the Botanical Museum^ Taxidermist'' Sy and 

B. Stairs to clerk's rooms. 



lodeler't Rooms. 



15. MusEtna of AGRicULXtJRE. — Opposite the main entrance below, a double 
flight of stairs of wrought and cast iron, lighted by a large stained-glass window, 
leads to the second floor, and into the Museum of Agriculture. On the first landing 
is a plank 12 x 6^ ft. from the giant redwood tree of California. The Museum Hall 
occupies the main building, and is loz ft. long, 52 ft. wide, and ay ft. high. A covea 
stuccoed cornice extends around the hall, broken at regular intervals by brack- 
ets, in which are wrought busts of Indians. The cove is ornamented by flowers and 
fruits, with medallion shields bearing the arms of the United States, and the States 
of the Union in 1868 in their chronological order. The ceiling is divided into 15 
panels embellished with rosettes. A soft color, harmonizing with the ornamenta- 
tion of the hall, is employed generally on the walls. For the accommodation and 
security of the agricultrual collection, the hall has been supplied with dust-proof wa/- 
nut cases of chaste design. 

The Museum (which will be explained by an attendant) shows the agricultural 
productions of the United States, and manufactures therefrom, also how the former 
are affected by climate, insects, birds, and animals— injurious and beneficial It is 
divided into general. State, and economic. The general division illustrates the his- 
tory of agricultural products. The fruits and vegetables are modeled in plaster of 
Paris, and colored in oil, to represent nature. The State and economic divisions, 
when completed, will show in a single case the mineral and agricultural productions. 



160 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 

and economic substances manufactured therefrom, of each State. The principal 06- 
jtet tf the museum is utility, to iHclude all the products of agriculture, and bearihg 
apon the increase of knowledge in that important branch of industry. 

In the centre of the hall is a table of California redwood yx 12 ft. finished in other 
native woods, and presented by gentlemen in California The vase on the table is 
made of Coquina or Florida shell rock from St. Augustine, Florida, taken from the 
foundation of the residence of the early Spanish colonial governors. 

Cases North Range commencing on the W. The shelf numbers count from 
below. The injurious birds have a perch with a partly black end, and beneficial^ white, 

I. Not yet erected. It is proposed, however, to place this case shortly. 

a. I, American ducks; 2, American small birds, arranged to show benefit or in- 
jury, with contents of stomachs in small boxes; 3, American hawks and owls. 

3. I, animals — domestic and farm pests; 2, American game birds; 3, gulls and 
aquatic birds. 

4. Domestic poultry. 

5. I, Fish — prepared skins ; 2 and 3, foreign game birds that can be or have been 
domesticated. 

6. A case has been prepared for this space, and will be erected at once. 

7. Foreign game birds. 

g. California products and miscellaneous specimens. 

9. Grains and cereals — native. 

10. Grains and cereals — native. The middle and upper shelves arranged hf 
aates. 

II. 1 and 2, Temporary case of botanical specimens. 
IZ. 1, Vegetable fibres — cotton. 

Cases SotrrH Range commencing on the E. 
IZ. Foreign woods, &c. 

13. 1 and 2, Foreign grains, collected at the Paris Exposition 1867; 3, miscella- 
neous. 

14. I, Petroleum, tobacco; 2, sugar, syrups, &c., Indian foods; 3, farinaceoo* 
products, gums, resins, &c. 

15. I, Chinese paper; 2, American and foreign paper and paper-making mate- 
rials; 3, Japanese paper. 

16. Silk from egg to manufactured goods of highest quality. 

17. I, Animal fibres, angora wool; 2, vegetable fibres, ramie and aloes; 3, vege- 
table fibres, miscellaneous. 

18. I, Vegetable fibres, cotton; 2, flax, flax cotton, asclepias; 3, New Zealand 
flax, agaue fibre and miscellaneous tropical fibres. In a case against the wall is a fine 
specimen of the cotton plant. 

19. The case designed for this space has not yet been erected. 

Centre of the Hall, commencing on the west. 

20. I, Tropical fruits — southern apples; 2, apples, (models.) 

21. I, Vegetables, (models;) 2, apples and pears, (models.) 

22. I, Vegetable, apples, fish, (models;) 2, pears, (models.) 

23. I, Vegetables and fruits, (models;) 2, miscellaneous fruits and vegetables, 
(models,) fungi; (models and natural.) 

The flan of the museum was suggested and carried into operatiou by Townend 
Glover, entomologist of the Department. 

1-6. Statistician. — Here the m»nthlj and annual rtftrtt and ttatttUcal infkrmm- 

tim are compiled. 

17. Clerks of the Statistical Division. 

18. Ladies' Retiring Room. 
iQ. Clerks. 

20. Cabinet of Entomology. — Tne room, 20 x 30 ft., is supplied with suitable 
walnut cases. The collection comprises the insects of -the United States injurious 
and beneficial to agriculture, arranged scientificaily, for reference. In the ofen 
cases is a small collection of insects for exhibition, and specimeni of insect injury 



DEPARTMENT OF Ai^Kt jULTUKE. 



a-nd architecture , both 
exceedingly interesting. 
The walls are hung with 
a series of about 300 
plates, by Prof. Townend 
Glover, illustrating the 
insects in the cabinet. 

21. Entomologist's 
Private Room. 

On the third floor, E. 
wing, reached from A, 
plan of the second floor, 
is the Botanical Mu- 
seum. It is supplied with 
appropriate cases, and 
contains 200 natural or- 
ders and 25,000 species of 
plants, a space being de- 
voted to each order. The 
specimens are arranged 
on sheets and indexed. 
The first collection was 
transferred from the 
Smithsonian Institution, 
and comprised the speci- 
mens brought home by 
the Wilkes expedition. 
The specimens gathered 
by the various United 
States exploring expedi- 
tions are all deposited 
here. The collection of 
plants of the United 
States is very complete. 

The rooms adjoining 
are occupied by the Tax- 
idertjzist on the W. and 
Modeler on the S. The 
former has the prepara- 
tion of birds for the muse- 
um, and their care. The 
latter makes models of 
fruits for the museum. 

Over the third floor, 
W. wing, reached from 
B, plan of the second 
floor, the rooms are used 
for clerks. 

Basement reached 

from B, first floor — con- 
tains Seed Rooms, in 
western portion, and rest 
Folding, Laborers' , and 
Engineers' Rooms, and 
accommodations for heat- 
ing apparatus and fuel. 
The seed-packing depart- 
ment, where upwards of 
60 persons are employed, 
is of ^re.ii ii.terest. 
11 




j62 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 

Plant Houses— Oil the W. of the department building are 
the plant houses^ commenced in 1868 from designs by Wil- 
liam Saunders, Superintendent of Gardens and Grounds. 
The main structure is 320 ft. long and 30 ft. wide E. and W., 
with a wing 150 long projecting to the rear or S. of the centre 
of the main building. The centre pavilion is 60 ft. long, 32 
ft. wide, and 30 ft. high, and is devoted to palms and the 
larger tropical plants, such as bananas. The pavilions at 
the extremity of the wings are 30 ft. square, 26 ft. high, i nd 
are the orangery^ and for other semi-tropical fruits. Th »se 
terminal pavilions are joined to tlie centre by connect ng 
ranges 100 ft. long, 25 ft. wide, and 17 ft. high, and are 'C- 
•cupied by the miscellaneous collection of plants of practi ft! 
use, such as medical plants and those furnishing textile fibp s, 
useful gams, sugars, and dyes. The S. projecting wing is 
the grapery^ and contains a collection of foreign grapes. 1 e 
roots are planted in borders on the outside, and the stei s 
conducted into the grapery through apertures in the bri I: 
wall. The dark varieties are on the W. side, and the lig it 
on the E. There are 100 varieties in all. 

The plant houses are heated by means of hot water, circulated through 5,000 ft. 
of 4-in pipe, and supplied by two boilers. The boilers are arranged with a cut-o£F, 
so that they may be operated separately or together. 

These houses have foundation walls of red sandstone, with bluestone bases and 
caps. The doors and windows of the centre and wings are designed in morcsque 
arches. Brackets uphold the cornice from which the cupola roof rises. The main 
entrance projects from the main building, and has three arched openings The 
frame of the structure is of iron and wood substantially built, and cost $2,5,000. 
The roof is covered with American glass of double thickness, and curved expressly 
for the purpose. 

Commissioners of Agriculture, — 1862, Isaac Newton, Penn.; 1867, John W. Stokes 
Pcnn., (acting;) 1867, Horace Capron, 111.; 1871, Frederick Watts, Penn. x877« 
W. G. LeDuc 1881, George B. Loring, Mass. 

History. — under act July 4, 1836, Henry L. Ellsworth, Commissioner of Patents, 
gave attention to the distribution of rare grains^ seeds^ and plants^ in the collection 
of which he was aided by the diplomatic and consular officers of the United States 
in foreign countries. In 1839 $1,000 were appropriated for the purpose. This gave 
rise to the agricultural division of the Patent Office. 

In 1858 a Propagating Garden wzs established on that portion of the public grounds 
lying along the S. side of Missouri av., bet. 4% and 6th sts. N., for the purpose of 
testing sorghum and Chinese sugar cane. In 1868 these operations were removed 
to the present more extensive grounds. 

The Department of Agriculture was established by act of Congress dated May I5, 
1862, ''•to acquire and diffuse among the people of the United States useful infor- 
mation on subjects connected with agriculture in the most general and comprehcn- 
sive sense of that word, and to procure, propagate, and distribute among the people 
new and valuable seeds and plants." The chief executive officer was to be known 
as the Commissioner of Agriculture, to be appointed by the President and confirmed 
by the Senate. The Department, before occupying its present abode, had rooms in 
the basement of the Patent Office. 

There are now annually distributed about 1,200,000 packages of seeds, and 25,000 
bulbs, vines, cuttings, and plants. 

The publications cf the Department consist of an annual r«/)orf of about 700 pages 
octavo, 227,000 to 275,000 printed for distribution, and monthly reports of about 48 
pages octavo, on the condition of the crops. 28,000 printed. 



NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 



163 



NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 

The United States Naval Observatory is one of the leading 
astronomical establishments in the world. It is open every 
day^ except Sunday^ from 9 a. m. to ^p. m. The watchman 
will show visitors through the building. Night visits are very 
much restricted in consequence of the interference with the 
astronomical work. The street cars on Pennsylvania av. run 
within 10 min. walk. Alight at 24th st. W., south side. Vis- 
itors afoot may reach the Observatory by following New 
York av. W. of the State, War, and Navy Department to E 
St. N., thence by the latter to 24th st. W. 

Grounds. — The Observatory occupies a commanding site 
on the N. bank of the Potomac, 96 ft. above tide, and origin- 
ally known as Peters^ Eill^ after its proprietor. The beauti- 
ful grounds comprise 19 a. within the walls, and constitute 
Beservaiion No. 4 on tlie original plat of the city. 




NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 

There are many interesting historical associations connected with the site. In 175; 
portion of Braddock's army camped here on the march from Alexandria to the fatal 
field on the Monongahela. On the Potomac bank is a rock upon which the troops 
were landed, and known as Braddoch^s rock. In 1792 it was proposed to erect a/orf 
and barracks on the N. portions of the reservation. It was a favorite project with 
Washington to establish a national university here. The grounds were named Uni- 
versity Square from this fact. In i8i3-''i4 part of the American army encamped on 
the hill, from which fact it was long known as Camp Hill.,znd advanced to Bladens- 
burg for the defense of the city against the English. 

Tlie Observatory, founded in 1842, is under the direction of 
the Bureau of Navigation., Navy Department. The reserva- 
tion ill the centre of vvhicli it stands was selected for the pur- 
po.«e by President Tyler. 

Buildings, — The central building.^ completed in 1844, is 50 
ft. sq., consisting of a basement and 2 stories, with a crown- 
ing parapet and balustrade, and is surmounted by a dome. 



164 NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 

On the E. and W. are wings^ each 26^ ft. long, 21 ft. wide, 
and 18 ft. high. At the end of the former is the residence of 
the superintendent, and the latter, an observing-room^ 40 ft. 
by 28i ft., built in 1869. The projection on the S. is 60 ft. 
long, and terminates in the great dome. Visitors are expect- 
ed to register their names in the book opposite the main 
entrance. 

Eooms and Instruments. — The numbers refer to the diagram 
of ground plan. 

I. Pier of Equatorial, brick, imbedded 17 ft in the earth, conical, is 12 ft. 
in diameter at the surface line, 7 ft. at top, 28 ft. high, and is capped with a pedestal 
of stone weighing 7^ tons. Over the pier is a dome 23 ft. in diameter, rising 20 ft. 
above the roof, and provided with a slip. The dome revolves on six 24-lb. shot. 
This Equatorial^ purchased in 1845, was made by Merz and Mahler, Munich, cost 
$6,000. Object-glass, 9.62 in., clear aperture; focal length, 14 ft. 4.5 in. Its work 
is chiefly upon the smaller planets, asteroids, and comets. 

II. Superintendent's Office. — Here is an electro-chronograph^ in a marble case, 
invented by Prof. John L. Locke, 1848. It is connected by electric wires with the 
clocks in the Executive Departments, Weather Signal Office, and Western Union 
Telegraph Office. The current is continually passing, the pendulums of all the clocks 
beating together. In the adjacent hall is a superbly-carved black walnut switch-board^ 
made by the Western Electric Manufacturing Company, Chicago, and purchased in 
1874. The frame takes no wires, and has 3,000 combinations. Through this the 
clock.«, chronographs, and instruments are placed in communication with each othei 
and with the telegraphic system of the world. The old switch-board is opposite. 

III. General Office. IV. Office of Naval Officer in Charge of 
Chronometers. V. Packing- Room. 

VI. Mural Circle and Transit, with clock and chronograph. Mural Cir- 
cle, made by Troughton & Simms, London, 1843; erected in 1844. Object-glass, 
4.10 in., clear aperture ; focal length, 5 ft. 3.8 in. ; diameter at graduation, 60.35 in.; 
is divided into every 5 min., and is supplied with reading microscopes. Its use is for 
observing declinations of stars. Transit^ made by Ertel & Son, Munich, 1844; erect- 
ed the same year. Object-glass 5.33 in., clear aperture; focal length, 7 ft. 0.4 in. 
Used for observing the right ascension of stars. These were the principal instru- 
ments used by Prof. Yarnell in making his Catalogue 0/10,658 Stars. 

VII. Chronometer-Room, in which the chronometers of the navy, when not 
in actual use, are kept and rated. The average number here is 200. They are 
wound and compared with a standard,daily, and a record kept of their variation by 
the naval officer in charge. In the same room is a standard mean-time clock, with 
necessary apparatus, from which at meridian each day exact time is dispatched. The 
naval officer in charge, at 3 min. before noon, connects the clock through the foot 
of the pendulum with electric wires, and at mean noon taps the electric key, simul- 
taneously giving the instant of mean noon to the Western Union Telegraph Com- 
pany's offices, and thence all over the U. S. The hall over the Observatory is 
dropped at tne same moment. 

VIII. Library. — In 1844 this consisted of 200 vols, of astronomical works, do- 
nated by the Greenwich, Paris, Berlin, and Vienna Observatories. It now com- 
prises 6,000 vols., some very rare, dating in 1482, relating to astronomy, meteorolo- 
gy, and kindred sciences, and is the most complete of the kind on the western hemi- 
sphere. 

IX. SiDERiAL Clock, made by Kessels, of Altona, Germany, is used as the 
standard clock of the Observatory. 

X. Transit Circle, made by Pistor & Martins, Berlin, was first mounted in 
the present Library in 1S65. Object-glass, 8.52 in., clear aperture; focal length, 12 
ft. I in.; outer diameter of its circles, 45.30 in., and at the graduation, 43.40 in. 
Both circles are divided to every 2 min., and are fitted with reading microscopes. 
The collimators, for adjusting the instrument, have a focal length of 2 ft. 11 in. 
Use: observation of the positions ot the sun, moon, and planets. In the same room 
is a chronograph, made by Alvan Clark & Sons, from designs by Prof. Wm. Hark- 
aess. It records by electric wires the times at which observations arc made. 



NAVAL OBSERVATORY. 



165 



XI. Primb Vertical Transit, made by Pistor & Martins, Berlin, was erect- 
ed in 1844. Object-glass, 4.86 in., clear aperture; focal length, 6 ft. 5 in. Is used 
oaiy for declinations. 

XII. Machine Shop. XIII. Room op Officer in Charge of thh Great 
Equatorial. XIV. Sleeping Apartment op Officer in Charge of the 
Great Equatorial. 



XV. Great Equatorial, 
mounted in 1873, made by Al- 
van Clark & Sons, Cambridge- 
port, Mass. Object-glass, 26 
in., clear aperture; focal 
length, jal^ ft., cost $47,000. 
The rough lump of glass was 
cast by Chance & Co., Birm- 
ingham, England. The in- 
strument rests upon a double 
pier of masonry, imbedded 17 
ft, in the earth. The pier 
above the floor is of brick, 
arched, and has a cap consist- 
ing of a solid block of red sand- 
stone, 8 ft. long by 2 ft. wide 
and high. On top of this is an 
iron support weighing 1,100 
lbs., to receive the axis upon 
which the telescope is mount- 
ed. The instrument with ita 
base weight 6 ton*. The io- 




strument is equattrially 
mounted^ the general plan 
being that devised by Fraun- 
hofer, modified by Messrs. 
Clark and Prof, S. Newcomb, 
and is run by a reaction water 
wheel. It is fitted with mi- 
chrometers, spectroscopes^ &c. 
The tube is of sheet steel, 
rolled in Pittsburgh. There 
IS also a chronograph con- 
nected with t^e instrument. 
The great equatorial is plac- 
ed in an iron dome 41 ft. in 
diameter and 40 ft. in height, 
erected at a cost of $14,000. 
The superstructure rests on 
a stone foundation. The roof 
is supplied with a slip, re- 
volve* on conical wheels, 
and is easily moved horizont- 
ally in either direction by 




NAVAL OBSEBVATOBT, OBOUND PLAN. 

means of suitable gearing. The instrument is the largest refractor in the world. 
The next in size is in the private observatory of R. S. Newall, Gateshead, England, 
and has 25 in. of clear aperture. 
XVI. Residence of the Superintendent. 

The rooms on the second floor of the main buUding are used 
by officers in charge of the various instruments and their 
assistants. The view from the platform around the dome is 
very fine. To the top of the staff" over the dome a black can- 
vass hall^ 2^ ft. in diameter, is hoisted daily a few minutes 
before noon, and by means of a steel spring, governed by a 
magnet and operated from the chronometer-room, is dropped 
on the instant of mean noon. 



16G ARMY MEDICAL MUSEUM. 

Superintendents of the Depot of Charts and Instruments. — iSjO, Lieut. L. 
Goldsborough ; i8jj, Lieut. Charles Wilkes; 1836, Lieut. Hitchcock ; i8j8, Li 
J. M. Gilliss. Of the Naval Observatory. — 1844, Commander M. F. Maury; r >», 
Capt. J. M. Qilliss; 1865, Rear Admiral C. H. Davis; 1867, Rear Admiral » Y. 
Sands; 1874, Rear Admiral C. H. Davis.' 

History. — The first action of Congress towards the establishment of an ob- va- 
tory was in 1821, in the passage of a joint resolution to ascertain the longitude the 
Capitol from Greenwich, first proposed by Wm. Lambert, of Va., in 1810. I tSjo 
a bureau^ for the care of the instruments and charts of the navy, was creat . A 
small jo-in. transit was erected at the same time. A series of observations wi car- 
ried on in connection with the Wilkes Exploring Ex/>edition, i8j8-'42. In S42 a 
^^ permanent depot'''' was established. In 1850 the wer/if/dn 0/ </i« Obserz try aX 
Washington was adopted as the American meridian for astronomical and hat of 
Greenwich for all nautical purposes. Long, of Observatory, 77° j' 5'',! W. of 
Greenwich; lat., 38° 5j' j8".8 N. 



AKMY :MEDICAL MUSEUM. 

The Ai'iny Medical Museum {open every day^ except Sv day,, 
from 9 aimh. to 3 j9. m.) stands on the E. side of 10th s . W., 
about midway between E and F sts. N. It is a plain brielc 
structure, painted dark brown, 3 stories iiigh, 71 ft. front, and 
109 ft. deep. Tlie building was originally a church, and then 
a theatre, known as Ford's Theatre, and was the scene of the 
tragedy of April 14, 1865 — the assassination of President 
Lincoln. The building was immediately closed by the Gov- 
ernment, and in April, 1866, Congress purchased it for $100,- 
000, for the purpose to which it is now applied. The interior 
was taivcn out, remodeled, and madt rire-proof, under direc- 
tion of Surgeon General Barnes. There is now no trace of 
the exact scene of the assassination. Its location was on the 
r., about the centre of what is now the second floor. The as- 
sassin took his last drink in the restaurant, which occupied 
the first floor of the S. wing, now the Chemical Laboratory. 
The President was conveyed to the house No. 516, opposite, 
and died in the back room of the first floor. 

On the N. side, in the rear of the building, is a small wing, 
occupied by the Museum workshops, and in front, on the S. 
side, is another wing, used by the Chemical Laboratory and 
the officers on duty. The main entrance is in the S. portion 
of the front, and the Museum is in the third story, at the top 
of the stairway. The first floor is occupied by the record 
and pension division of the Surgeon General's Offlce, contain- 
ing the papers belonging to the military hospitals and monthly 
sick reports of the army during the rebellion, 1861-65, and 
are stil' received from the various posts of the regular army. 
The hospital records number over 16,000 vols. The payment 
of pensions is based upon information received from these rec- 
ords. The alphabetical registers contain about 300,000 names 



ARMY MEDICAL MUSEUM. l67 

of the »iead of the army. The Chemical Laboratory in the S. 
wing is charged with the examination of alleged adiilterations 
of medicines and hospital supplies, and other investigations 
of a similar nature which come before the Surgeon General. 
The second floor contains the surgical records. In the S. wing, 
on this floor, are the ofiices of tlie Surgeon General and sur- 
geon in charge. Here are portraits of Surgeon General Lovel, 
John Hunter, (a copy from Sir Joshua Reynolds,) philosophi- 
cal writer on surgery, Dr. Morton, autlior of Crania Ameri- 
cana^ and Dr. Pliysic, an original by Rembrandt Peale. 

Museum.— The Museum on the third floor is well lighted 
in front and rear and by a large central slvylight, wliich also 
lights the floors below through oblong openings. The attend- 
ant in the room will answer questions and point out objects 
of special interest. 

The specimens, arranged in cases and otherwise, number 
16,000, and are divided into six sections, viz: I. Surgical 
Sectio7i, embracing specimens of the efifects-of missiles of 
every variety on all parts of the body, extremely interest- 
ing ; the stages of repair ; morbid conclitions, calculi, tumors, 
&c. ; plaster" casts representing mutilations resulting from 
injuries and surgical operations; examples of missiles ex- 
tracted from wounds ; preparations exhibiting the effects of 
injuries peculiar to Indian hostilities. In this section ^re 
the bones of the amputated portions of the legs of eight 
generals, and a portion of the vertebrae of the neck of Booth, 
the assassin. II. Medical Section^ consisting of specimens 
illustrating the morbid conditions of the internal organs in 
fever, chronic dysentery, and other camp diseases ; the mor- 
bid anatomy of the diseases of civil life; and pathological 
pieces relating to the diseases of women and children, mal- 
formations, and monstrosities. III. Microscopical Section^ 
including thin sections of diseased tissues or organs, suitably 
mounted for microscopical study, and a variety of prepara- 
tions exhibiting tlie minute anatomy of normal structures. 
An interesting branch of tliis section is the success attained 
in photo-micography, tlie process by which the most delicate 
microscopical preparations can be pliotographed to a magni- 
fying power of 4,500 diameters. lY. Anatomical Section^ 
embracing skeletons, separated crania, and other prepara- 
tions of the anatomy of the human frame. The collection of 
liuman crania, witli a view to ethnological studj', and espe- 
cially relating to the aboriginal race of the United States, is 
very complete, numbering about 1,000 specimens. V. Section 
of Comparative Anatomy., embracing over 1,000 specimens of 
skeletons oi buffalo, deer, bear, and other American mammals. 



168 GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 

With birds, reptiles, and fishes. VI. Miscellaneous Section, 
mcliidmg models of hospitals, barracks, ambulances, and 
medicme wagons, a collection of surgical instruments, arti- 
ficial limbs, and other articles of interest. 



governme:n^t printing office. 

The Government Printing Ofiice and Bindery {open every 
day, except Sunday, from 8 a, m. to 5. p. m.) occupies an 
L-shaped brick building, on the SW. corner of H and North 
Capitol sts. The Office may be reached by the Columbia 
Horse Railway. Visitors should alight and enter by the door 
on North Capitol St. Strangers will state at the door theii 
desire to visit the building. 

The building, constructed of brick painted, measures 243 
ft. by 175 ft., is 61^ ft. deep and four stories high. The 
original structure, including printing material, was pur- 
chased by the government from Cornelius Wendell in 1860, 
for $135,000. It was then occupied as a contract printing 
oface. It was enlarged in 1865-70-79 and '81. The prmting 
of the two Houses of Congress, and the Executive and Judi- 
cial Departments, is now done here. 

The work is disposed throughout the building as follows : 

First Floor — Press and Dry Press Rooms ; Paper Warehouse, No. i ; Vault 
fof Stereotype Plates and Cuts ; Machine and Carpenter Shops. 

In the Court — Roller, Boiler, and Coal Houses, and Stables. 

Second Floor — Offices of the Public Printer and Foreman of Printing and 
Document, Job, and Proof Rooms, Electrotyping and Stereotyping Department. 

Third Floor — Binding Department and Warehouse No. 2. 

Fourth Floor— YoMxr.'g Room, Congressional Record Room, Patent Office 
Specification Room, and Warehouse No. 3. 

History. — In the first session of the First Congress, 1789, the printing of bills 
and journals was done under the secretary of the Senate and clerk of the House. 
In 1794 a specific appropriation was made for " firewood, stationery, and print- 
ing work " — $10,000. In 1803 the President's Message was the first document 
printed. In 1819 each house elected its own Printer for the session. The print- 
ers to Congress now became affluent, and entertained handsomely. These also 
gave rise to the party newspaper organ system. The most noted were Gales, 
Seaton, Blair, and Rives. The printing of the 27th Congress cost $200,000. In 
1846 the contract system was adopted. In 1852 the office of Superintendent of 
Public Printing was created. John D. Defrees was appointed first Superin- 
tendent in March, 1869. In 1876 the office was changed from Congressional to 
Public Printer, and appointed by the President. The total disbursements now 
reach $2,500,000 per annum. The documents are distributed to Congress and 
other branches of the Government according to law. The office employs 1800 
men and women. 

Some of the volumes printed by the Government have been very elaborate and 
expensive. The Pacific Railroad Reports, i860, 11 volumes, cost $863,513. The 
largest work yet undertaken is the " Rebellion Record," 96 volumes of 800 
pages. The Revised Statutes, 1,038 octavo pages, were printed, bound, and 
delivered to the Committee in two and one-half days. The scientific reports are 
very fine. In 1880, seventeen million copies of pamphlets and documents were 
printed, 341,000 blank books, and 131,000,000 blanks and envelopes made 



170 winder's building. 



WINDER'S BUILDING. 

This structure {open every day^ except Sunday^ from 9 a. 
m. to 3 p. m.) is situated on the N W. corner of F and 17th sts., 
opposite the Navy Department. It was originally erected 
for a hotel, and was purchased by the Government for the 
accommodation of public offices. Tlie first floor is occupied 
principally by the Chief Engineer of the Army, The last 
room, No. 2, on the corridor leading to the r. after entering 
is the Battle Record Room,, in which the reports of the battles 
of the late war are filed and indexed. On the r. of the S. 
corridor, No. 13, is Sifile room for the papers belonging to the 
Adjutant General's Office. The second floor, E. front, is 
devoted to the Judge Advocate General of the Army,, and the 
S. to the Ordnance Offi,ce. The floors above are assigned to 
the Second Auditor of the Treasury Department. 

Ordnance Museum. — {Open every day,, except Sunday^ from 
9 a. m. to 3 p. m,) — This interesting military collection is on 
the second floor, and may be readied by ascending the steps 
opposite the main door, and keeping the corridors to the r., 
passing through the door marked "Ordnance Office " to door 
No. 49 on the r. at the farther end of the corridor ; crossing 
this room and the connecting hall we enter the Museum, 
which occupies a detached building. The collection occupies 
two fine halls. The most conspicuous object on entering are 
the captured Confederate flags. They are all more or less 
associated with the battles of the late civil strife. The other 
objects of interest are United States Army infantry and cav- 
alry uniforms and accoutrements complete; section of an 
oak, which stood inside the Confederate entrenchments near 
Spottsylvania C. H., and was cut down by musket balls in 
the attempt to recapture the works carried by 2d Corps A. 
P., May 12, 1864; Jefterson Davis' rifle, a French piece, 
taken at the time of his capture in 1865 ; artillery, cavalry, 
and infantry accoutrements used in the U. S. Army from the 
earliest date; cheveaux-de-frise from front of Petersburg, 
Va. ; models and drawings of arsenals ; fuses for exploding 
shells and cannon ; shells picked up on the battle-fields ; cart- 
ridge bags for field, siege, and sea-coast artillery, the largest 
containing 100 lbs. ; projectiles of various sizes, both spherical 
and rifled, the largest being 20 in. in diameter, and weighing 
1,000 lbs. ; portable cavalry forge and tools complete ; Gat- 
ling guns of various sizes, including the "Camel" gun 
mounted on tripod, and of which large numbers are in use 
in Egypt; a Billinghurst and Requia battery; a Union or 



CITY HALL. 



171 



'^cofTee-mill" gun ; a steel Whitworth gun, one of a battery 
from loj^al Americans in Europe to the United States in 1861 ; 
the carriage of a 4 lb. cannon, formerly the property of tlie 
city of Vicksburg, fired at a passing steamer several days 
before any guns were tired at United States forts or troops 
at Charleston or Pensacola — the gun is at West Point ; breech 
loaders captured at Richmond ; confederate projectiles ; 
models complete, showing mountings of guns in casemate 
and barbette, also mortars ; a gun mounted on a saddle ; 
models of field and siege artillery, caissons, forges, and bat- 
tery wagons used in the U. S. Army; life-size models of 
horse artillery equipments, ordnance rockets, and fireworks. 
On the second Jioor is the Museum of small arms, in which 
can be traced then* history from the beginning, and practically 
illustrating the stages of advancement, embracing breech and 
muzzle-loaders^ muskets, rifles, and carbines, armor 1610^ 
cuirass, and helmet, and other relics from the battle-field of 
Sedan, 1870, foreign arms and cavalry equipments, Indian 
war clubs, and ancient weapons and wall pieces^ Japanese 
two-handed sword, worn by Kondo, a provincial officer, visit- 
ing the U. S. in 1871, presented by Arinori Mori, Charge 
d' Affairs, and captured Confederate arms. 




DISTRICT COUET-HOUSE, (FORMERLY CITY HALL.) 

DISTRICT COURT HOUSE. 

The City Hall, until 1871, occupied jointly by the munici- 
pal government of Washington and the United States Comts- 



172 ARSENAL. 

lor the District of Columbia, in 1873, by purchase, became the 
sole property of the United States, and is now entirely devoted 
to judicial purposes. The structure stands on the S. line of 
Judiciary Square, fronting 4 J st. W., and at the intersection 
of Louisiana and Indiana avs. In the open space in front is 
a marble column surmounted by a statue of Lincoln by Lot 
Flannery, a self-taught sculptor. It was erected out of the 
contributions of a number of patriotic citizens. The building 
was commenced in 1820, from plans by George Hadfield, the 
architect of the Capitol. The E. wing was finished in 1826, 
and the W. in 1849. It is two stories, 47 ft. high, and con- 
sists of a recessed centre 150 ft. long, with two projecting 
wings, each 50 ft. front and 166 ft. deep. The entire frontage 
is 250 ft. The structure is of brick stuccoed painted white. 
In the centre Of the main building, and in each wing, are re- 
cessed porticos, formed of Doric columns. Between the wings 
is a paved space. 



THE UNITED STATES BARRACKS. 
The U. S. Barracks, formerly the U. S. Arsenal, changed 
1881 {open from sunrise to sunset), occupies a tract of 69 a., 12 
ft. above high water, at the extreme S. point of the city, aC' 
cessible by the 7th and 9th st. lines of Horse Railways; the ter- 
mini of which are near the gate, at the foot of 4^ st. W. 
The tract. Reservation No. 5 (page 22) originally comprised 
28^ a., at the confluence of the Potomac and Anacostia riv- 
ers, to the mouth of James Creek, and northward to T st. S. 
In 1857 it was extended to its present area by the purchase 
of the adjoining land on the N., between the Potomac and 
the James Creek Canal to P st. S., and where stood the U. S. 
Penitentiary 1826-69. The grounds are beautifully laid out 
and entered through massive gates swung on heavy guns. 
The garrison consists of Foot and Flying Batteries, drill 
every morning. Here may be seen the various styles of 
guns and mortars used in active service. The commanding 
officer's quarters are in the large building on the r-, entering. 
The officers' quarters are in the quadrangle at the foot of the 
Peninsula, and for men and stables on the left. Total 
•quarters for 5 batteries. The principal magazines are on the 
Anacostia. 



ARSENAJ. 



na 



The body of Booth, the assassm of President Lincoln^ was landed at the 
small wharf at the S. W. end of the peninsula. It was, with the bodies of the- 
other conspirators, buried in one of the lower cells of the United States Pent- 
tentiary^ erecteo on the north end of the arsenal grounds, 1826-29. In 1865 the 
body of IVirz, the Anderson rebel prison-keeper, executed at the old Capitol 
1865, was also buried here. When the Penitentiary was torn down. i369, 
these bodies were removed, Wirz to Mt. Olivet Cemetery, D. C, and Booth 
CO Baltimore. The grounds afford a delightful stroll or drive, with the brof*' 
Potomac on the W. and the James Creek Canal on the E. 



fi 



Si 



Objects of Inter- 
est. — In front of the old 
quarters are a number of 
raptured cannon aftd 
mortars, among which 
are two Blakely guns, 
one inscribed, " Pre- 
sented to the sovereign 
State of South Carolina, 
by one of her citizens re- 
siding abroad, in corii- 
memoration of the 20 
of December, i860 ;" a 
brass gun with a ball in 
the muzzle, shot there in 
the battle of Gettysburg; 
guns surrendered by the 
British by the Conven- 
tion of Saratoga, Oct. 
17? 1777; French guns 
taken at the battle of 
Niagara, July 25, 1814 ; 
a 64 pounder, captured 
at Vera Cruz, March 29, 
1847 ; ^^^ guns cap- 
tured from Cornwallis 
at Yorktown Oct. 19, 
1781 : also a number of 
small guns and mortars, 
some of date 1756. 

History. — In 1803 a 
military station was es- 
tablished on the Arsenal 
grounds. In 1807 shops 
were erected. In 1812 
powder was stored here, 
in 181 3 it became a reg- 
ular depot of supplies. 
In 18 14 it was destroyed 
by the British. A num- 
ber of the latter were 
killed by the explosion of 
powder secreted in a well 
riear the quarters. In 
1815 it was rebuilt under 
Col. George Bomford. 
In 1816 buildings were ^ . 

erected by the Ordnance Department. During the rebellion, iS6i-'65, it was tht 
depot of ordnance supplies for the Army of the Potomac. Large quantities of 
ammunition and gun carriages were made here. In 1864 twenty-one girls 
were killed in an explosion of one of the laboratories. Since the war the 
'grounds have been beautified. 



m 



iilSiif^ 



174 NAVY -YARD. 



NAVY-YARD. 



The Navy-Yard (open every day, except Sunday, from 7 a. 
m. to sunset,) is situated on the Anacostia, | m. SE. of che 
Capitol, 8tli St. E. terminating at the entrance. It may be 
reached from the W. portions of the city in the red cars oi 
the Pennsylvania av. st. railway. The officer of the marine 
guard at the gate wUl pass visitors. The present grounds 
comprise about 27 a., and are entered by a stone gateway, in 
Doric style, over which are small cannon-and-ball embellish- 
ments, and in the centre a well-executed eagle, resting on an 
anchor. Inside, on the r., is the guard-room, and opposite 
the officers' room. An avenue runs S. from the entrance to 
the building occupied by the Commandant's and other offices 
of the yard. The Executive officer's room is on the second 
floor, and from whom a permit may be obtained, which will 
admit the bearer to any part of the yard, in tiie workshops, 
and on board any monitors in the stream. 

Immediately within the entrance, on either side of the 
avenue, are two large guns, captured in 1804, by Commodore 
Decatur from two Tripolitan gunboats. The buildings on 
the 1. and r. are the officers' quarters : those of the Com- 
mandant being on the 1. On the 1. of the main avenue are 
the storehouses, copper-works, &c. ; and on the r. the foundry, 
machine, and other shops. S. of the Commandant's building 
are a number of cannon and projectiles : among the former 
two of 1686 and 1767 date, captured at Norfolk, Va., 1862; 
several Austrian and French guns, and two Austrian howit- 
zers, rifled, captured on the steamer Columbia in 1862. 

On the river bank are two ship-houses E. and W. Near 
the E. is the boat-house, from which a boat may be talien to 
the monitors, if any, in the stream. More to the W. lies the 
receiving-ship, the W. ship-house, and a water battery. The 
large building crowning the hUl on the opposite side of the 
river is the National Asylum for the Insane. The view down 
the river is very fine. In the W. part of the yard is the Ord- 
nance-shop and Laboratory. The avenue leading back to- 
wards the main entrance passes near the Museum, (open from 
^ a. m. to 4 p. m.) On either side of the door are a number of 
projectiles of the largest size. Among these a 20-in. shot, 
weighing 1,048 lbs. The gun is on the Eip-raps, Hampton 
Roads. Here may be seen a number of relics and otlier ob- 
jects of interest : among which, on the first foor, are a Span- 
ish gun, cast about 1400, brought to America by Cortez, and 
used in the conquest of Mexico ; a Spanish gun captured by 
Commodore Stockton in California in 1847 ; an old-style re- 



NAVY YARD. 



175 




NAVY-TARD. 

peater ; a small mortar, captured from Lord Ooriiwallis ; a 
section of the steriipost of the Kearsarge, showmg a shell, 
\v hich did not explode, fired into it by the Alabama ; confed- 
erate torpedoes, taken out of southern harbors ; submarine 
rockets; models of projectiles, and a very interesting col- 
lection of those wliicli had been fired. On the second floor 
are principally small arms ; models of cannon ; a model of the 
ordnance dock, Brooklyn ; brass swivels, one very old, said 
to liave belonged to Cortez ; a telescope rifle; two blunder- 
busses, and cases of rifles and pistols. The walls and ceil- 
ings are artistically decorated with pikes, cutlasses, sabres, 
and pistols. 

History.— On Oct. 30, 1799, the selection of a site for the 
Xavj^-Yard was brought to the attention of the commission- 
ers, and led to considerable correspondence witli Naval Agent 
William Marbmy. The ground best suiced for that purpose 
lay on the Anacostia, a sliort distance above its confluence 
with tlie Potomac, on land owned by Messrs. Carroll and 
Prout. On Dec. 3, 1799, tlie Secretary of the Na\y gave 
orders to lay the ground out. Tlie yard, however, was not 
formally established till the passage of the act of March, 1804. 
In those early days it was unrivalled. Such famous vessels 
as the Wasp, Argus, the brig Viper, the Essex, the schoon- 
ers Shark and Grampus, the sloop of war St. Louis, 24 guns, 
and frigates Columbia, Potomac, and Brandy^'ine, 44 guns 
each, were built here. In 1837 it was proposed to establish a 



176 MARINE BARRACKS. 

naval school at tlie yard. Of late years the yard has lost its 
prominence for naval constru tion, owing to the greater fa- 
cilities presented by more recently-established stations, and 
the filling up of the channel. In 1816 a ship of the line 
could anchor here. The yard is now one of the most im- 
portant for the manufacture of naval supplies. 



MARINE BA.RRACKS. 

A short distance N. of the Navy-Yard gate, on the E. side 
of 8th st. E., between G and I sts. S., are the Marine Bar- 
racks. The Pennsylvania av. cars for the Navy- Yard pass 
the iron gate, which is the general entrance. Visitors are 
admitted from ^ a.m. till sundown, but can be passed before 
that time by the officer of che day. The barracks have a 
frontage of 700 feet. The centre building, used for officers' 
quarters, is two stories high, and the wings are one story, 
with accommodations for 200 men. The offices of the gen- 
eral staff are opposite, on 9th st. E. On the N. of the 
square are the quarters of the Brigadier General and Com- 
mandant of the Marine Corps, and opposite, on the S., is 
the armory and hospital . In the former are some interest- 
ing Marine Corps flags. One bears the inscription ''From 
Tripoli to the Halls of the Montezumas" by land and sea; 
also, a Corean flag captured in battle. 

The most interesting occasion lor a visit vrould be at the 
time of general inspection on any Monday, weather permit- 
ting, at 10 a. m., when the Marines and their excellent band 
may be seen in full parade. Every day at 8 a. m. in summei 
and 9 a. m. in winter, there is guard mount, the band per- 
forming. The barracks were burnt by the British in 1814, 
but were immediately rebuilt. Recruits are sent here for 
instruction before being detailed for service on the vessels 
of the Navy 

The Marine Corps was organized in 1798 as an adjunct to 
the naval establishment, then placed under an independent 
administration. The corps has participated, with glory to 
its officers and men, in all the brilliant achievements which 
have characterized the operations of the Navy of the United 
States whenever called upon to vindicate the honor of the na- 
tion. On land the corps has borne itself nobly ; and agamst 
greatly superior numbers and overcoming grave obstacles, 
has invariably returned with fresh laurels. In the Tripolitan 
and Mexican wars, in their participation in the attack on Fort 



U. S. FISH POJMb. 177 

Fisher, in their desperate conflict on the coast ot Corea, against 
overwhelming numbers of the barbarous enemy, and in repeated 
retaliatory landings on the shores of Asiatic countries and islands 
of the Pacific, their discipline and bravery have won for them a 
bright page in the nation's history. The Headquarters of the Corps 
are appropriately at the National Capital, being established at the 
Marine Barracks. 



U. S. FISH PONDS. 

The U. S. Fish Ponds, (open every day, except Sundays, from 
8 a. m. to /]^p. m.,) are situated about ^ m. S. of the Executive 
Mansion, and 200 yds n. w. of the Washington Obelisk. The 
entrance is on The Drive a few steps S. of B St., N. 

The Site. — The Site, 30.6 a., was originally mostly a pesti- 
ferous marsh. In 1878, under direction of Prof. S. F. Baird, 
Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries, it was converted into ponds 
for the propagation of certain food and ornamental fishes. 

The Ponds. — The Ponds are 3 feet above the high water 
mark of the Potomac River, and aggregate 20>^ a. water surface. 
The East, 6.437 a.; West, containing 2 islands, 7.045 a.; North, 
4.346 a., excepting 2 partition ponds for gold fish, and South 
Ponds, 1.500 a., are devoted to the propagation of carp. Ponds 
I, .078 a , and 2, .086 a., near the gate, are used for the propa- 
gation of Japanese Gold Fish; 3 and 4, .576 a., 3 for Golden Ide, 
imported from the Danube, in Austria, and 4, for Turtles. Of 
Turtles there are 40 of the finest varieties, as Terrapin, Diamond 
Back, and others, from the West Indies and the U. S. Ponds 
5, .157 a., and 6, .178 a., are used for propagating Blue Carp, a 
new variety from Italy. 

There are also a number of tanks used in the process of propa- 
gation. 

History. — The propagation of Carp of the scale, mirror, and 
leather varieties, for free distribution, was commenced in 
1879, and has since been prosecuted with eminent success. 
The propagation of ornamental fishes, as the American Tench, 
Japan Gold Fishes, Crawfishes, and Leeches, has since been in- 
troduced. The Spawning Season is in May. During the cleaning 
of the ponds in the Autumn, Carp weighing from 5 to 30 lbs. have 
been caught. Over 500,000 young fish from these ponds are dis- 
tributed yearly. 

Aquatic Plants. — There is also to be seen here the finest 
collection of Aquatic Plants in the U. S., including many 
varieties ot Nymphaeas, or Water Lily family and Nelumbiums. 
In addition to the interest to the student of fish, the lovers of 
botany will here find much to instruct them. 



SECTION lY. 

PLACES OF GENERAL INTEREST. 




SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION^ . 

HE Smithsonian Institution {open daily^ except 

Sunday^ from 9 a. m. to 4 p. m.) occupies a fine 

site S. of Pennsylvania av., and maybe conveniently 

readied by 10th st. W., the centre of the N. front 

of the building facing that street . 

Groimds. — Tlie whole area of what are now desig- 
nated the Smithsonian Grounds — that is, from 7th to 12th st. 
and between B sts. N. and S., covers 52 J acres. The Smith- 
sonian grounds proper, and wliich were"'set apart for the In- 
stitution in 1846, consist of 20 a., situated in the SW. corner 
of the larger reservation. At first the cliarge of the Smith- 
sonian grounds proper was under the Institution. About 15 
years ago, however, Congress resumed their supervision. 
They were then thrown into the extensive and beautiful res- 
ervation which now surrounds the Institution building. 

Tlie grounds were designed and partially laid out by the 
distinguished horticulturist and landscape gardener, Andrew 
Jaclison Downing, whose death occurred while in the prose- 
cution of his plans. They are arranged with lawns, groves, 
drives, and footways, and are planted with 150 species of 
trees and slirubs, chiefly American. In tlie E. portion of the 
grounds, N. of the E. wing of the building, is a vase of ex- 
quisite beauty, designed by Calvert Vaux, of Newburg, N. 
Y., executed by Robert Launitz, sculptor, of New York, 
and erected by* the American Pomological Society to the 
memory of Downing. The funds were supplied by fi'iends of 
the deceased. The principal design of the monument con- 
sists of a large vase of antique pattern, worked in Italian 
marble, and resting on a pedestal of the same material. The 
vase is 4 ft. high and 3 ft. in diameter at the upper rim. The 
body is ornamented with arabesque. Acanthus leaves sur- 
round the lower part. The handles rest on the heads of satyrs. 
gods ot groves and woods, and the pedestal on a carved base 

a78 



THE STATUE OF HENRY. 



179 



About 200 feet N. of the W. wing 
of the Smithsonian Institution Build- 
ing, stands the semi-heroic bronze 
Statue of Prof. Joseph Henry, of 
N. Y., first Secretary of the Smith- 
sonian Institution, 1 846-' 78, and 
investigator and discoverer in elec- 
tricity and the magnetic telegraph. 
It was erected by Congress under A. 
June I, 1880, executed by W. W. 
Story, is 9' high, cast by Nelli, in 
Rome, weight, 4,000 lbs., arKi cost 
$15,000. It represents the subject 
attired in the Academic gown, the 
left hand resting on a volume lying 
on a plinth. The pedestal consists 
of a base and cap of axed Quincy 
grey, and an octagonal plinth of 
polished Maine Red Beach Granite; 
is 8' high, and cost $982. The 
Statue was unveiled April 19, 1883, 
in the presence of the three daugh- 
ters of Prof. Henry, the Chancellor 
and Regents of the Institution, 
and members of the three great 
branches of the Government, the 
Diplomatic Corps, Officers of the 
Army and Navy, Scientists, Men of 
Letters, and a vast assemblage of 
the people. Orf.tor, Nosh Porter, 
President of Yale College. Music 
by the Marine Band and the English 
and German Choral Societies of the 
Capital. 

Description. — The style of archi 
tecture of the Smithsonian Building, 
designed by James Renwick, Jr., of N. Y., is Norman, and chron- 
ologically belongs to the end of the 12th century, representing the 
rounded at the time of merging into the Gothic. It is the first 
unecclesiastical structure of that period ever built in the United 
States. The building compares favorably with the best examples 
of the styles, variously called the Norman, the Lombard, the 
Romanesque, and Byzantine. The semi-circular arch still is used 
throughout in doors, windows, and other openings. The windows 
are without elaborately traceried heads. The weather mouldings 
•consist of corbel courses with proj ections. It has towers of various 




story's henry. 



180 SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 

{'■:- ..... 

sizes and shapes. The main entrance from the N"., sheltered 
by a carriage porch, is between two towers of beautifully 
symmetrical prot)ortions and unequal height. The general 
design consists of a main centre building, two stories liigh and 
two wings of a single story, connected by intervening ranges, 
each having a cloistqr on the N. with open stone screen. In 
the ceiitre of the N. side of the main building are two towers, 
the higher one 145 ft.. On the S. is a single massive tower 37 
ft. square, including the buttress, and 91 ft. high. On the 
NE. corner is a double campanile 17 ft. square and 117 ft. to 
tlie top of its finial. At the SW. corner is an octagonal tower 
finished with open work in tlie upper portions. At the SW. 
and l^W. corners are two smaller towers. There are 9 tow- 
ers in all, including the smaU ones at each wing. 

Tlie extreme length of the building from E . to W., includ- 
ing the porch of the E. wing, is 447 ft. The breadth of the 
centre of the main building and towers, including carriage 
porch, is 160 ft. The E. wing is 82 by 52 ft., and 42 J ft. high 
to the top of its battlement. The W. wing, inclusive of its 
projecting apsis, is 84 by 40 ft., and 38 ft. high. Each con- 
necting range, inclusive of cloister, is 60 by 49 ft. The main 
building is 205 by 57 ft. and to the top of the corbel courses 
58 ft. high. 

The material used is a variety of freestone found in the new 
red sandstone formation, about 23 m. distant from Washing- 
ton, in the vicinity of the point where Seneca creek empties 
into the Potomac river. It is the same, though brought fi-om 
a different locality, as that used in the construction of Trinitj'' 
church of ISTew York city. The buUdhig throughout is con- 
structed in the most dm-able manner. The foundation walls 
vary from 12 to 8 ft. at the base to 5 ft. at the top. The walls 
of the main building, above the water table, are 2 J ft. for the 
first story, and 2 ft. for the second, exclusive of "buttresses, 
corbel courses, and other exterior projections, and exclusive 
of the interior lining of brick. The walls of the wings are 2 
[t. thick. Groined arches are turned under the central, the 
>,ampanile, and octagonal towers, and towers of the W. whig. 
The copings, cornices, battlements, window jambs, mullions, 
sills, and all stone work, is held by iron clamps leaded. The 
face of the building is finished in ashlar, laid in com*ses 10 to 
15 in. in height, and with an average bed of 9 in. The whole 
of the centre building is fii-eproof, and the two wings and 
rano;es practically so. The roofs are of slate laid on iron. 



182 



SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. 



Secretaries of the Smithsonian Institution.— \Z^6, Joseph Henry, of 
N. Y.; 1878, Spencer F. Baird, of Pa. 

History. — ^James Smithson, the founder of the Smithsonian Institution 
was bom in London, and took a degree at Oxford in 1786. He was son of 
Hugh, first Duke of Northumberland, and Elizabeth, heiress of Hungerfords 

of Audley, and niece of Charles the 
Proud, Duke of Somerset. Having 
never married, he devoted his life t.-» 
science, and died at Genoa, in 1828 
leaving his money to his nephew 
Henry James Hungerford, for life, 
after which it was to go to the United 
States " to found, at Washington 
under the name of the Smithsonian 
Institution, a^i establishment for the 
increase and diffusion of knowledge 
among -men." By act of Congress, 
July 1, 1836, the government of the 
United States accepted the bequest, 
and, in the same year, Richard Rush, 
of Pa., was designated to prosecute 
the claim. The original fund, ;5!5i5,. 
169, thus obtained, was placed in the 
Treasury of the United States, and 
invested. By act of Congress, Aug. 
lo, 1846, the Smithsonian Institution 
was given organization: its aflfairs 
being entrusted to a Board of Regents 
composed of certain high officers of 
the government and a designated 
number of private citizens, who 
elected a secretary charged, under 
tneir direction, with the active management. On May i, 1847, the £-<7r«#r- 
x^<j«^ of the building was laid with Masonic ceremonies, in the presence of 
President Polk and Cabinet, and a large gathering of officials and citizens, 
George M. Dallas, of Pa., orator of the day. The building was completed in 
1856, at a cost of $450,000, paid out of the accretions of interest, etc., of the 
original fund, and still leaving a permanent fund of $650,000 in the Treasury 
of the United States, from the income of which the expenses of the Institution 
are paid. The expenses of the National Museum, under the direction of the 
Institution, are paid by appropriations by Congress. In 1857 the government 
collections in the Patent Office were removed to the Institution building. On 
Jan. 24, 1865, the upper part of the main building and the papers and reports 
of the Institution and personal efifects of Smithson, were destroyed by fire. 
In 1866, by act of Congress, the Library of the Institution, comprising a large 
and valuable collection of scientific works and transactions of foreign societies, 
was transferred to the Library of Congress, and works now received through ex- 
changes are immediately sent there. The Institution is now devoted to " the 
increase and diffusion of knowledge," the care of the National Museum ; an< 
conducting exchanges between the government and scientific bodies of the U. 9 
and foreign countries. 




JAMES SMITHSON. 



THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. 183 

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM BUILDING. 

This attractive structure, of the modernized Romanesque 
style, open daily, except Sunday, from 9 a. m. to ^p.m., stands- 
50 feet E of the Smithsonian Institution, and may be reached 
within convenient distance by the Pa. ave. street cars, 
changing at 7 st. W, and go S ; or by pedestrians from Pa. 
av., by 10 st. W., also going S. The building was designed 
by Aidolph Cluss and Paul Schulze, of Washington, from 
plans suggested by Prof. Baird, Gen. Sherman and Peter 
Parker, after a careful examination of the most approved 
structures of the kind in the Old and New World. It is 
327 feet square, and covers 2.35 acres, or 102,200 square 
feet. There are 4 entrances : one in the centre of each 
facade between 2 lofty towers 86 feet high, acting as but- 
tresses for the naves. The approach to the principal 
entrance is from the north by 4 granite steps 37 feet wide, 
with moulded side-blocks, to a richly-tiled platform with 
granite base-blocks, surmounted by two stately candelabra. 
On the inscription-plate on the globe of the nave is 
" NATIONAL MUSEUM, 1879," and crowning it an alle- 
gorical group, by C. Bierbel, of N. ^f., semi-heroic, in Ohio 
grey free stone, representing Columbia as the protectress 
of Science and Industry. 

The four symmetrical exterior walls^ 27 feet high, are broken by projections 
in the centre and angles utilized for rooms. Between these are large arched 
windows set with ornamented glass. The pavilions at the corners relieve the 
effect of low walls. In the rear of the curtain walls the clerestory rises to the 
height of the nave roofs, which terminate against the side walls of the dome. 
The dome in the centre at the base is octagonal, surmounted by a 16-sided 
polygon 67 feet in diameter, 77 feet high, and covered by a slate roof and 
lantern crowned by a decorated finial Ctotal height, 108 feetj. In the clerestory 
are large windows. Lofty lanterns, square and oblong, have also been added 
above the naves and square halls, affording light withont flat skylights. 

The building is constructed of brick, 5,250,000 having been used, laid in 
black mortar, with air spaces. In the cornices buff and blue brick add to the 
effect. The base course is of granite and main entrance, window sills, in- 
scription plates, coping, etc., of grey Ohio free-stone. The 37 roofs are con- 
structed of iron truss and girders and slated, the blue from Ore Banks, Virginia, 
and red and green from Vermont, the total 60,000 plates. Uti^ general features 
of the interior are a central rotunda with 4 naves 65 ft. wide, 117 ft. long, 
and 42 ft. high, radiating from it and forming a Greek cross, over the centre of 
which the dome rises. In the exterior angles of the cross are halls 65 ft. 
square, and the same height as the naves, the whole constituting 17 large ex- 
hibition halls, 80,300 ft. space connecting under high archways resting on brick 
piers, with bond stones at intervals of 5 ft., of North River greywacke blue 
stone introduced to give strength and durability. There are in addition on the 
main floor and 2 upper stories, 27,400 sq. ft. divided into 135 rooms for admin- 
istrative functions, offices and working rooms of the museum. T)xq galleries, 
4,000 sq. ft., are on a line with the second floor and for special exhibits. The 
height of rooms on the main floor to the roofs is 56 ft. The roofs are double. 
Those over the halls, between the Greek cross and the exterior walls are 
covered with metal, 32 ft. high, admitting of a clerestory with windows light- 
ing the square hall and naves. The glass, 31,000 sq. ft., was imported from 
Belgium. The sashes are set with double glass. The whole interior is in 



184 NATIONAL MUSEUM. 

sand finish with sHght decoration in the arches. The main floors 
are artistically tiled. In the basement are the boilers engines and 
heating apparatus with 200 radiaters with 14,000 sq.ff of radiating 
surface. The system of electric wires and signals is very complete 
and connects every case, door and window with the watchman's 
office- 




DIAGRAM OF THE HALLS OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM. 

I. Main Entrance. 2 Main Vestibule. Here visitors may 
register their names and are required to deposit umbrellas, canes 
and packages, no fee being charged. 

3 and 6, Telephone and Telegraph Rooms. 4 and 5, Superin- 
tendent's Office. 7 and 10, Assistant's Office 9. Assorting 
Room. 8. Stairway to Balcony used by the Preparator. 11. 
Main North Hall, devoted to the historical collection representing 
all Nations. 



NATIONAL MUSEUM. 1 85 

12. The Rotunda. Statuary and Fountain. • The Staifways 
lead to the Galleries for the use of visitors. 

13. Northwest Court, Pottery Collection, 14. Lecture Hall. 
15. Hallway to Executive Office. 16. Executive Office. 

17. Library. The 2d fl. of this pavilion is devoted to Executive 
Offices. 

18. Northwest Range. Materia Medica and Food Exhibit 

19. West Hall. Ceramics, Textiles, Ethnology. 

20. 1st fl. Curator of Materia Medica. 2d fl. Curator of Eth- 
nology. 21. West Entrance, closed. 

22. 1st fl. Property Clerk and Assistant Curator Department 
of Rocks. 2d fl. Curator of Ethnology. 

23. Southwest Range, Department of Metallurgy. 

24. Southwest Court. At present. Assorting Room of Depart- 
ments of Metallurgy and Rocks. 25. Machinist's Labratory. 
26. Engineer and Stairs to Chemical Labratory. 27. Curator of 
Metallurgy 

28. West South Range, Department of Rocks and Minerals. 

29. South Hall, Department of Mammals. 

30. 1st fl. Curator of Invertebrate Palaeontology. 2d fl. Cura- 
tor of Mammals 31. South Entrance, closed. 32. ist fl Office 
of Paleontologist. 2d fl. Curator of Fossils. 

33. East South Range, Department of Osteology. 34. 2d fl. 
Curator of Insects, and Photographer, ist fl. In the extreme 
corner is PtMic Jomfort Room for gentlemen. 35 and 36. Pvblic 
Comfort Room for ladies. 

37. Southeast Range, Antiquities and Model of the Town of 
Zuni. 

38. Southeast Court, used for storage. 39. East Hall, Eth- 
nology. 

40 and 41. 1st fl. Cafe. 2d fl. Modeler. 42. East Entrance, 
closed. 43 and 44. Acting Curator of Food and Textiles, and 
Curator of Fish and Fisheries 2d fl. Assistant Modeler. 

45. Northeast Range, Fisheries — Boats. 46, Northeast Court, 
Assorting Room. 47. East North Range, Fish — Fishing. 48. 
Assorting Room, Ornithologist — ^Eggs. 

49. The Chemical Labratory of the U. S. Geological Survey. 



CENTRAL STATION, FISH COMMISSION. 1 87 



U. S. FISH COMMISSION (CENTRAL STATION.) 

The Building occupied by the U. S. Fish Commission (open 
every day except Sunday fro77i 9 A. M. to 4 P. M.) stands on thfr 
n. w. cor. of 6th and B Sts., s. w., entrance on 6th St., and may 
be reached conveniently from the 7th St. Branch of the W. & G. 
Horse R. R. going S. from Penn. Ave. 

Building. — The building, brick, I03'x57', was erected in 
l856.'9, by authority of Cong, 1855, for the use of the Militia of 
the D. C., ar d is known as "The Armory," cost $38,000. It was 
applied to its present use in 1880. 

Objects of Interest. — On the basement fl. may be seen an 
interesting collection of illustrations of fish hatching stations and 
processes, models of fish ways, and the tables, jars and other ap- 
pHances used in the hatching and distribution of fish, also other 
articles of interest in fish culture. The upper stories are devoted 
to storage. 

Fish Hatching. — From Oct. 20 to June 10, the various dis- 
tributions and processes of fish hatching may be witnessed as fol- 
lows: Carp distribution from the U. S. Fish Ponds, Washington 
Park, from Oct. 20 till April i ; hatching and distribution of the 
Salmonidae, viz.: Land Locked Salmon, California Brook and 
Lake Trout, and White Fish of the great Lakes, (the eggs of 
which are received by express from California, Maine, New York, 
and Michigan) from Dec. to Mar.; hatching and distribution of 
Potomac Shad and Herring, (eggs from the Potomac), from April 
to June. There are lo tables with water attachments for 32 
jars each, or 320 jars, capable of hatching from 30,000 to 60,000 
Salmonidae, or 120,000 to 130,000 Shad or White Fish. The 
Trout eggs are kept in the jars until they reach the hatching point 
when they are transferred to the nursery troughs till they lose the 
sack, when they are ready for distribution. The period of hatch- 
ing is from 3 days to 10 weeks, according to the fish. The hatch- 
ing capacity of this station is from 5,000,000 to 10,000,000 fish a 
season, and the annual distribution, Carp, 200,000, varieties of 
Salmonidae, 800,000 to 2,000,000, and White Fish, 2,000,000 to 
3,000,000. 

The propagation of Gold Fish, which deposit their eggs on a 
variety of grass, is also interesting. 

The Aquarium. — In the glass frames may be seen some fine 
specimens of Carp, Golden Ide, and other fish. It is proposed 
to form a large collection of living fish, and ultimately also of 
Marine life, if the facilities for a supply of salt water can be reached. 



I 88 FISH COMMISSION STATION. 

Fish Cars. — In the yard S. of the building, is a siding an<i 
shed, the former connecting with the tracks of the B. &. P. R, R. 
on 6th St., for the accommodation of the Composite Refrigerator 
Cars, built for the purpose, and used in transportation of the 
young fish to the waters of liberation. 

History. — The U. S. Fish Commission was created by Cong- 
in 1871, to investigate the causes of the decrease of our marine 
food fishes. Prof. S. F. Baird, Director Smithsonian Institution, 
was appointed Commissioner, and turned his attention with mar 
vellous success to fish culture as a means of increasing the food 
resources of the country. Fish culture was discovered by Jacoby, 
a German, in 1741. In 1837, John Shaw, of England, hatched 
salmon, and Dr. Garlick and Prof. Ackley reared trout in the 
U. S. in 1853. In that year Belgium, Holland, and Russia com- 
menced the cultivation of fish. In 1856 Massachusetts took the 
initial step in the artificial propagation of fish, by investigating its 
practicability. It was not, however, until Prof. Baird, under 
authority of Cong., made fish culture a subject of investigation 
and experiment, that its posibilities were fully understood, and 
suitable appliances introduced The work now extends to the 
propagation of sea and fresh water fishes, and the introduction of 
foreign varieties. The U. S., to-day, stands at the head of the 
nations of the world in fish culture, Canada second, arid Germany 
third. At the International Fisheries Exhibition, at Berlin, 1880, 
where all the countries of Europe, except France, were represen- 
ted, the grand prize of honor, offered by the Emperor for the best 
collective exhibition, was given to Prof. Baird. A number of 
Hatching Stations have been established in localities adapted to 
the propagation of the varieties of fish selected. There are also 
at various points, stations for annual scientific investigation of the 
food, habits and migrations of fishes, and the collection of marine 
fauna. Wood's Holl, Mass., is the headquarters of the Commis- 
sion for this work. The Steamers of the Commission are con- 
stantly in service during the season. 



CORCOaAN GALLERY OF ART. 



189 




THK CORCORAN CxALLERY OF ART. 



COECORAN GAI.LERY OF ART. 

Tlie Gallery is open Mojidays, Wednesdays^ and Fridays^ 
admission 25 c; Tuesdays, Thursdays, aiid Saturdays, free; 
hours, 10 a. m. to 4tp. m. from October to May. and 9. a. m. 
to ^. p.m. from May. to October. The building stands on the 
NE. corner of Pennsylvania av. and 17th st., and was com- 
menced in 1859. From 1861 to 1869 it was occupied by the 
Quartei'master General of the United States Army. 

It is in the renaissance style, and has a frontage of 106 ft., on 
Pennsylvania av., and 124^ ft. on 17th st. The exterior is 
constructed of brick, with facings, trimmings, and ornaments 
of Belleville freestone. The front on Pennsylvania av. is 
divided into a central pavilion, with a curtain on either side, 
and flanked by two other pavilions, one on either corner, 
and divided into two stories. The central pavilion has ver- 
miculated quoins in the corner, and these inclose the grand 
entrance door with a carved jamb and arch, overtopped mth 
fierce tigers' heads, in relievo. The anticom of the first story 
is simple in design and detail, and at the same time corre- 
sponds Mdth the massiveness of the quoins at the corners of 
the buildmg. 

The second story of the central pavilion consists of an 
arched recess. The span between the import and the suffit 
of the arch is filled wdth decorations, and 'jontains the mono- 
gram of the founder, surrounded with carved wreaths and 
enscroUments. Just beneath this there is a palladium win- 



190 CORCOEAN GALLERY OP ART. 

-dow, with fluted pilasters and columns and capitals, express- 
ing American foliage, exquisitively carved. In the arch are 
two wreaths, encircling various implements of painting and 
sculpture. 

The central pavilion is flanked on either side by two fluted 
columns, with capitals representing the broad leaves and 
fruit of the cornstalk. These support an entablature, on 
which are trophies, representing the Arts, on the frieze of 
the central pavilion; and on this are inscribed the words. 
"Dedicated to Art." The cornice over this has a pediment, 
in the tympanum of which is a bass relief, representing the 
Genius of Painting, surrounded by figures emblematical of 
the sister arts. 

In the four niches on the avenue front are statues in 
Carrara marble, 7 ft. high, by M. Ezekiel, an American 
sculptor, executed 1879-80 in Eome, representing Phidias 
(sculpture), Raphael (painting), Michael Angelo (archi- 
tecture;, Albert Durer (engraving). The same sculptor is 
now engaged on statues for the seven niches on the 17th 
street side of the building. 



The entire structure is surmounted by an imposing 
mansard roof, slated. The architect was James Renwick, 
N. Y. The cost of building and ground, $250,000. Mr. 
Corcoran's private collection of pictures and statuary con- 
tributed to the gallery, $100,000. The endowment fund, 
$900,000. 

History. — The Corcoran Gallery of Art was the free gift of William W. 
Corcoran to the public, and was deeded to the Trustees May lo, 1869, " for 
the encouragement of Painting, Sculpture and the Fine Arts," certain days 
being set apart for artists to copy works, and requiring it to be open to visitors 
two days in the week without charge, and on other days at a reasonable charge 
for the current expenses of keeping the building in order. The institution was 
chartered by Congress May 24, 1870. Mr. Corcoran was born in Georgetown 
in 1798, began life as an auctioneer and commission merchant; in 1837 became 
a banker ; in 1840 was associated with George W. Riggs, and in 1854 retired a 
millionaire. 

FIRST FLOOR. 

I. Vestibule. — Casts of ancient Bas Reliefs and Antique Busts in marble. 
The stairway leads to the picture galleries. 

Right Corridor .-Busts oi Roman and Mythological chaxsLCters. 11 subjects. 

Left Corridor. — Cast of fragment of frieze of Trajan's Forum, the "Crowned 
Augustus," and other Roman and Greek celebrities. 11 subjects. 

Vestibule of Sculpture Hall. — The Last Days of Napoleon, marble, 
Vincenzo Vela, 1871 ; a replica of that bought by Napoleon III., now at 
Versailles. 

II. Trustees' Room. 

III. Hall of Bronzes.— 61^x19 ft. Bronzes by Antoine Louis Baige, of 
Paris, the largest collection of his works extant : the Hildesheim Treasures, 
Ceramic Ware, Armor, Japanese and Chinese Ware, etc. This large CoUec. 
tion is exceedingly interesting. Over 300 articles. 



CORCORAN GALLERY OF AllT, 



191 



IV. Hall of Antique Sculpture.— 95^^x24 J^ ft. This large collection of 
fasts of the statuary of the classic masters of the chisel, represents the. most 
celebrated specimens of the sculpture of ancient times. 78 subjects. 

V. Side Gallery. — 19' i"xi8' 7". Contains fine specimens of modern 
sculpture. 

VI. Gallery of the Renaissance.— 435^x19 ft. Contains a fine cast of the 
West Bronze Gate of the Baptistery at Florence, by Lorenso Ghiberti, 1381 
1455, and other fine specimens of this age. 24 Subjects. 

VII. Ladies' Retiring Room. 

VI II. Janitor. 





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FIRST FLOOR. SECOND FLOOB. 

SECOND FLOOR. 

IX. Hall and Stairway, — Statuary 

X. Main Picture Gallery. -96x44^4 ft. The collection of paintings 
ranks among the first in the United States. In the centre of the north wall is 
a fine portrait of W. W, Corcoran, the founder of this gallery of art, by Charles 
J.. Elliott, 1865. The paintings most valued anH admired are the Departure 
and the Return, by Thomas Cole, 1837 ; the Vestal Tuccia, by Hector 
Leroux, 1874 ; Scenery of the Magdalena River, Granada, by Frederick E. 
Church, 1854 ; Ceesar Dead, by Jean Leon Gerome ; Adoration of the Shep- 
herds, by Raphael Mengs ; Procession of the Sacred Bull, Apis Osiris, by 
Frederick A. Bridgman, 1879 ; Autumn Afternoon on Lake George, by John 
F. Kensett, 1864 ; Count Eberhard of Wirtemberg, by Ary Scheffer ; Death 
of Moses, by Alexander Cabanel, 1851 ; the Farm House, by George More- 
land; Nias^ara /rt//j, by Frederick E. Church, 1857; Mt. Corcoran,\>y K. 
Bierstadt, 1877; Chief Justice Shippen, of Pa., by Gilbert Stuart; the Talk- 
ing Well, by A. Vely, 1873. Over 115 paintings. 

XI. East Gallery. — 43^x19. Containing a fine collection of portraits of 
eminent Americans, by G. P A. Healy, Charles B. King, and others. 

XII. South East Gallery.— Endymion, by W. H. Rinehart, etc., and 
painting of Washington, by Miss Stuart, after Gilbert Stuart, her father, 

XIII. Octagon Room. — The statute of the Greek Slave, by Hiram 
Powers (original), 1846, etc. 

XIV. Southwest Gallery.— The Drought in Egypt, by F. Portaels, 
1873, etc. 

XV. West Gallery.— Thfe Trojan Horse, by Henri Motte ; Great Fall* 
of the Potomac, by Wm. MacLeod, etc. Over 68 paintings. 

The Official Catalogue of the Gallery, prepared by William MacLeod, 
curator, gives a complete and instructive account of this fine collection oi 
works of art. 



192 THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT. 

;:;, ', THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT (OBELISK ) ' 

f This grand- tribute to the life' and cha:rkcter of George V^^ashiiig- 
tpn,, occupies the crest of a. $Hght eminence in Washington Park, 
near the bank of the j^otomac and ^ of a m. S. of the Executive 
Mansion. 

Approaches. — The approaches to the Obehsk not having been 
completed, visitors will take I5lh or 17th Sts. from Penn. Ave. to 
the circular drive S. of the Executive Mansion, t^ the Mall drive 
thence to the Park and by the most convenient route to the 
Obelisk. A branch of the "Belt Line" of horse cars, leaving 
Penn. Ave. and 14th St., W. to the building of the Bureau of 
Engraving and Printing, passes near the Obehsk 

Completion of the Work, — It is estimated that it will be 
1887 before the completion of the interior, placing of the tablets 
and beautifying of the immediate surroundings of th t base of the 
Obelisk. The engineer in charge who has submitted a project, says 
that two methods of treating the terrace at the foot of the shaft 
have been suggested. One proposes to erect a retaining wall of 
the most beautiful marble around the terrace, which wall is to be 
surmounted with a marble balustrade. At the ceri re of each face 
is to be a set of broad double stairs, extending from the general 
level of the esplanade, which is to be paved in marble tiles of ap- 
proved patterns. The other, is to fill earth about the present 
terrace and to extend this filling so far from the Monumen as to 
fade the slopes of the embankment gradually into the surrounding 
surfaces. This mound is then to be planted with trees and shrubs, 
paths are to be laid out, and a pavement is to be put around the 
foot of the monument. 

The Grounds. — Washington Park, in which the Obehsk 
stands, embraces an area of 78 a., 22,678 sq. ft. On the W. are 
the U. S. Fish Ponds, S. the Government Propagating Gardens, 
S. E. the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and E. the Grounds 
of the Department of Agriculture. The drive from the President's 
Grounds winds along the W. and S. portion of the park. 

The Site. — The selection of this site was due to its natural 
advantages and historical associations. It commands a view of 
the Potomac and of Mt. Vernon, the home and tomb of Washing- 
ton, in the distance. It is also free from danger of dwarfing by 
the contiguity of other constructions. Washington himself 
selected this very spot for a "Monument to the American Revo- 
lution," which in 1795 it was proposed to erect at Washington. 
The spot is also marked on the original plan of the city as the site 
of the equestrian figure of George Washington, voted in 1783, by 
the Continental Congress. This plan was' approved by Washing- 
ton when President. The site may, therefore, be said to have had 
his sanction. 




THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT. (OBELISK) 



194 THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT. 

The Shaft. — The Obelisk, from the zero mark, isSSS'4}4" high, 
or from the foundation bed. 592'2". It is the loftiest construction 
of human hands on the face of the Globe. From the top of its 
own base it is 2o'4" higher than the projected tower of the new 
City Hall, of Philadelphia, Pa : 3o'5" higher than the spires of 
the great Cathedral at Cologne, Germany, and 247' lo" higher than 
the Statue of Freedom on the Dome of the Capitol. 

The dase is SS'^/^" sq., and the walls 15'X" thick. The we/I 
is 25'!^" sq. to the height of 150', where it enlarges to 3i'5^". 
^The exterior facing-stones of the old portion consists of white 
marble, from Texas Station, Md., with beds 14" to 18" wide, 
with a butter of ^" to i' on the outside, laid in courses 2' rise 
with alternate headers and stretchers throughout the mass, and a 
blue stone rubble backing. The new portion consists of marble 
from the Beaver Dam quaries, near Cockcysville, Md., having 
average beds of 2^' in width. 

The Foundation. — The superstructure of the Monument 
stood, originally, upon a foundation of rubble masonry of Poto- 
mac gneiss rock, 23'4" thick, carried up from the bottom, 80' sq., 
in eight steps to the top, 58'6" sq., of which height y'S" were be- 
low, and I5'8" above the general level of the ground. Before re- 
suming work on the shaft, this foundation was secured by the 
addition of a mass of Portland cement concrete, I26'6" sq. , or 
23'3" beyond the base of the old foundation, the bottom surface 
of the mass being placed at 5'i" above mean low water, or I2'4'' 
below the original foundation, and extending 18' under the outer 
edge of the old foundation, and 5' under the outer face of the shaft 
at its lowest point. To lock the new foundation in with the old, 
and to distribute the pressure uniformily over the new mass with- 
out the settling of the shaft was a delicate and dangerous opera- 
tion. The weight of the shaft and foundation to be worked under 
was 32,176 tons. The present foundation is 41*9" above mean 
low water in the Potomac, and 36'8" deep. 

The settlement of the shaft at completion, was 4}4"f ^%" of 
which occured during tlie strengthening of the foundation. The 
total weight of the structure is 81,120 tons, on a foundation bed 
of 16,000 sq. ft. The wind pressure on the leeward side adding 
.371 of a ton per sq. ft. The crushing strength of the marble is 
517 tons per sq. ft. 

The Pyramidion. — The pyramidal top, which begins at 500' 
4j^" above zero, at which point the obelisk measures 35'5^" sq., 
and the walls 18" thick, is 55' high. The Keystone, which is 
double, binding two arches intersecting each other at right angles, 
weighs 5,000 lbs., and was placed in position Nov. 18, 1884. On 
the bottom, visible from the 500-foot landing within, at the height 
of 40', is inscribed 1884. The Cap Stone, which forms the apex 
of the structure, weighs 3,300 lbs., and was placed in position at 
2.17 P.M., Dec. 6, 1884, by Col. Thomas Lincoln Casey, U. S. En- 



THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT. 1 95 

gineer in charge, aided by his assistants, Capt. George W. Davis, 
24th U. S. I., Mr. Bernard R Green, Civil Engineer, and P. H, 
McLaughhn, Master Mechanic. A salute by Hannaman's Dis- 
trict Artillery was fired below, and an appropriate resolution was 
passed by Gen. W. McKee Dunn, Horatio King, Dr* J. M. Toner, 
and D. B. Clarke, members of the Monument Society, who were 
assembled within at the 500-ft. landing. The tip of the Lightn- 
ing Rod, cut from metallic Aluminium, made by Wm. Frishmuth, 
Chemist, of Philadelphia, Pa., from American ore, corundum 
(emery) was then placed in position and connected with the light- 
ning conductors. It is 95^" high, 5^" sq. at the base, weighs 
100 oz., and cost $225. It is the largest block of Aluminium ever 
made. It is whiter than silver, does not corrode, and is one-third 
the weight of copper. On this metal point are the following in- 
scriptions; S. face, "Chief Engineer and Architect, Thomas 
Lincoln Casey, colonel corps of engineers; assistants, George W. 
Davis, Fourteenth United States Infantry; Bernard R. Green, 
civil engineer; master mechanic, P. H. McLaughlin;" W., 
"Corner Stone laid on bed of foundation, July 4, 1848. First 
stone at height of 152 feet, laid August 7, 1880. Cap-stone set 
December 6, 1884." N, '* Joint commission at settmg of cap- 
stone: Chester A. Arthur, W. VV. Corcoran (chairman), M. E. 
Bell, Edward Clark, John Newton, Act of August 2, 1876;" and 
upon the E. face, " Laus Deo." 

The Interior. — The interior of the Obelisk is fitted up with an 
elevator and an iron staircase with platforms alternating from E. 
to W. at intervals of 10'. There are 900 steps from the bottom 
to the 500-ft. landing. At this height are two windows 18" high 
and 3' wide on each side fo: observation. 

Tablets. — On the inner face of the old portion are 80, and on the 
new will be loi blocks of inscribed stones or copper, contributed 
by States and Territories, Indian Nations, Foreign Governments, 
Cities, Masonic and Odd-Fellow's Societies, Fire Companies and 
Children of the Public Schools. The stone sent by Pope Pio IX, 
was a block of African Marble from the Temple of Concord, in- 
scribed, it is said, "Rome to America." A Baltimore preacher 
named J. F. Weishample, issued an address to the Protestants of 
the U. S., against giving it a place. The excitement thus created 
resulted in an attack on the guard of the Lapidarium by a party 
of masked men, on Sunday night, Mar. 5, 1854, who siezcd the 
stone and carried it away, destroyed it, and it is supposed cast it 
into the Potomac. A reward of $500 failed to secure its recovery. 

Finances. — The Govt, appropriations to 1885, were $900,- 
000, and the amount expended, $887,710. The amount expended 
by the Society to Jan. i, 1856, was $300,000, making a total cost, 
i848-'85, $1,187,710. The estimated cost of completing the sur- 
roundings is $166,800 to $612,300, according to the plan. 



196 THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT. 

History. — The idea of a monument or statue to commemorate 
lie patrotic services of George Washington, was co-eval with the 
close of the war which achieved for the American Colonies an in- 
dependent national existance. On Aug. 7, 1783, the Continental 
Congress authorized the erection of an ' • Equestrian Statue, at the 
place where the residence of Congress should be established, in 
honor of George vv ashington, the illustrious Commander in Chief 
of the Armies ot the United States of America during the war 
which vindicated and secured their liberty, sovereignty and inde- 
pendence." This project was never carried out. At the time ot 
Washington's death, Cong., Dec. 24, 1799, passed resolutions for 
a marble monument at Washington, and to request his family to 
permit his body to be deposited under it. The President of the 
U. S. made the request which was acceded to by Mrs. Washing- 
ton, whorephed: "Taught by the great example which I have 
so long had before me, never to oppose my private wishes to the 
public vvill, I need not, I cannot say what a sacrifice of individual 
feeling I make to a sense of public duty." This plan was never 
carried out. On May 8, 1800, the resolution of 1 783 was amended 
to provide for a mausoleum ins ead of a statue On Jan. I, 1801, 
the House appropriated $200,000 to carry out the project, but the 
Senate did not concur. Nothing more was done until Sept. 26, 
^^33j when certain citizens of Washington associated themselves, 
electing John Marshall, Chief Justice of the U. S., their president, 
for the purpose of executing the early purpose of Cong., to erect 
a great National Monument to the memory of • ashington, at the 
Seat of the Federal Government, and asked the aid of the people 
in subscriptions of $1.00, in behalf of their enterprise. On Jan. 
31, 1848, Cong, authorized the "Washington Monument Society," 
which now had $87,000 on hand, to erect a monument to the 
memory of George Washington, on one of the public reservations. 
The present site was selected. The design of a monument pre- 
pared by Robert Mills, Architect of the Patent Office, was selec- 
ted. His original plan (see illustration) embraced the idea of a 
grand circular colonnaded building, 250' in diameter, and 100' 
high, from which should spring an obelisk shaft, 70' at the base, 
and 500' high. The design was very elaborate; the colonnaded 
buildmg of marble was to forma ** National Pantheon." The 
estimated cost was : Obelisk, $550,000, Pantheon, $570,000. 

The Corner Stone was laid July 4, 1848, with Masonic cere- 
monies in the presence of 20,000 ptrsons, representing every 
branch of the Government and all parts of the U. S. The orator 
was Robert C. Withrop, of Mass., Speaker of the House of 
Representatives. The corner stone weighed 12 tons. The cavity 
was lined with zinc, in which was deposited the inscribed plate, 
4th July, 1776. Declaration of Independence of the United 
States of America. 4th July, 1848. This Corner Stone laid, of a 
Monument, by the people of the United States, to George Wash- 



CHURCHES. 197 

ington." Names of officers. And 100 articles, including books, 
maps, newspapers from all parts of the country, masonic records, 
a descreption of the Monument, &c. The Grand Master of 
Masons, B. B. French, performing the ceremony, wore the apron 
and used the implements and sat in the chair previously employed 
by Washington in laying ihe corner stone of the Capitol. 
1776. 

The work on the shaft continued until I855, when it ceased at 
a height, from the foundation bed, of I75'8", to which 4' were 
subsequently added, making a total of I79'8 ' including the foun- 
dation. The shaft was 156'4''- By A. of Feb. 26, 1859, the 
Washington Natimial Momimejtt Society was incorporated. The 
Society organized under the charter, and efforts were renewed to 
complete the work, but the out-break of the Rebellion, i86i-'5, 
put an ena to all these efforts. 

The financial history of the Society shows that in 1836, subscrip- 
tions reached $28,000; in 1847, $87,000, and in 1855, $230,339.40. 
After 1855 $15,000 were collected, mostly contributed at the polls 
at an election in California in i860. The legislature of California 
voted $1,000 until the Monument was completed, but never paid 
it. New York, in 1871, contributed $10,000, New Jersey $3,000, 
and Minnesota $2,000, conditioned upon raising sufficient to com- 
plete the obelisk. Here the contributions ended until Congress ' 
iook hold of the work. On Jan. 13, 1874, a committee of 13 
Members of the House of Representatives was appointed to con- 
fer with the officers and members of the association, with a view 
to completing the work, and on May I, 1874, reported a Resolu- 
tion declaring it the duty of Congress to appropriate a sufficient 
amount "for the completion of this unfinished Monument, by 
July 4, 1876, the looth anniversary of American Independence " 
"On Aug. 2, 1876, a joint committee of Congress and ih® old 
Society, was created for the completion of the monument. In 
1877 the foundations were examined, and on June 25, 1878, Lt.- 
Col. Thomas L. Casey, U. S. E gineer, was assigned as Engineer 
in charge, and Capt. George Vv . Davis, 24th U. S. I., as assistant. 
On July 27, a project for strengthening the foundation to siastain 
at least 555', was submitted to the Committee. On Oct. i, the 
engineers were instructed 1 o begin on the foundation, and to order 
material to complete the super structure. (See description of the 
Monument.) 

CHURCHES. 

A list of leading churches will be found in General Information. 

The Christ Church, near the Navy Yard, was erected about 
1800. It was attended by Jefferson and Madison. The first 
Baptist Church was built in 1803, the first Methodist in 1805, 
Roman Catholic in 1810, Presbyterian in 1826. Services, how- 
ever, were held previously in temporary quarters. 
St. John's Episcopal Church, on the NE. cor. l6tn and H sts., 



198 HALLS. 

NW., opposite Lafayette Square, was erected in 1816, from 
designs by Latrobe, the architect of the Capitol. In 1820 it 
was enlarged, and its original form, a G-reek cross, was 
changed to a Latin, and a portico and steeple added. Among 
those who attended services here were Presidents Madison, 
Monroe, and Jackson, and the diplomatic representatives of 
England. The first Unitarian church, on 6th and D sts. 
N"W., fronting on Louisiana av., was erected in 1824. 



HALLS. 



There are a number of halls in various parts of the city. 

Masonic Temple is on the NW. corner of F and 9th sts. 
NW., entrance on F st., and was erected by the Masonic Hall 
Association. The corner-stone was laid in 1868. The build- 
ing is of granite and Connecticut and Nova Scotia freestone, 
and cost $200,000. The two exposed faces are tastefully en- 
riched with an appropriate introduction of Masonic symbols. 
The ground-floor is occupied by stores, and the second by a 
public hall, 100 by 48 ft. and 25 ft. high, and retiring rooms. 
The hall has been the scene of some of the most brilliant 
balls and State sociables given at the capital. In the third 
story are the Blue Lodges of Masonry, and in the fourth the 
Royal Arch Chapters and Commanderies. The furniture and 
fittings of the lodges are of superior quality, and are unsur- 
passed in any similar place in the country." A lodge of Ma- 
sons was established in the earliest days of the capital. Prior 
to 1816 there were two which assembled in a building on the 
borders of the river. Under the pavement of the Temple, on 
the S. front, is what was formerly known as the City Spring. 

Odd Pellows' Hall, situated on 7th st. W., bet. D and E 
sts. The earlier building was dedicated in 1846, and erected 
out of funds subscribed by the lodges and members meeting 
in the central part of the city. It was remodeled in 1873. It 
has a granite base and pressed-brick superstructure, with gal- 
vanized-iron pilasters, jambs, caps, and cornice, and is sur- 
mounted by thi-ee domes, that in the centre raised above the 
others. Tlie ground-floor is occupied by stores. The stair- 
wav at the main entrance leads to the main hall, on the sec- 
ond floor. The hall is 100 by 40 ft. and 22 ft. high, and fitted 
with a stage of 21 ft. additional, at the E. end. Et is princi- 
pally designed for balls, concerts, and lectm-es. Adjoining 



NEWSPAPER OFFICES. 



199 



arp ladies' retiring and gentlemen's cloak-rooms. Tiie third 
floor contains two lodge and one Encampment rooms. The 
Library^ on the same flooi-, for tlie use of members of the 
Order and their families, contains a fine collection of books. 
The first Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows 
was established in the District of Columbia in 1827 ; the 



Lincoln Hall. — This fine structure stands on the NE. cor- 
ner of 9th and D sts. NW. It is built of Seneca brownstone, 
with iron trimmings, is three stories high, surmounted by a 
Mansard roof. The corner-stone on the SW. bears the in- 
stription, '* Y. M. C. A., Nov. xxvii, mdccclxvii. Jeho- 
vah JiBEH." The building was erected by a joint stock 
company chartered by act of Congress in 1867, and was com- 
pleted in 1869, at a cost of $200,000. On the ground floor are 
stores. There are two entrances to the upper floors . 




LINCOLN HALL. 



On the same floor is Lincoln Hall, the finest lecture or concert hall in the 
city, *hich will seat about 1,300 people. 



NEWSPAPER OFFICES. 



Tlie buildings occupied by two of the principal newspapers 
of the city will compare favorably in completeness, if not in 
size, with the best structures of the kind in the country. 




INSTITUTIONS OF LEARNING. 201 

UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES. 

The public institutions of the national Capital afford un- 
dvalecl facilities for professional and collegiate education. 




NATIONAL MEDICAL COLLEGE. 

The National Medical College of the Columbian University. 
on H St., between IStli and 14th sts. N. W., was founded in 
1824. The buildin,^ was the gift of W. W. Corcoran, 1864, 
cost $40,000, was originally intended for a mechanics' library 
and lectures, contains two lecture rooms, with ante rooms, 
chemical laboratory/, and dissecting room. In winter the jan- 
itor will admit visitors. Tlie Dispensary is open daily, exceot 
Sunday, from 1 to 3 p. m., to the poor. 



The Medical and Law Departments of Georgetown College, 
respectively established in 1851 and 1870, occupj^ buildings 
on the corner of 10th and E sts. and F between 9tli and 10th 
sts. N". W. In the former is the Central Dispensary, open 
daily, except Sunday, from 1 to 3 p. m. 

The Gonzaga College, on I, between North Capitol and 
1st sts. N. W!, was founded in 1848 as the Washington Sem- 
inary, and incorporated as a university in 1858. It is con- 
ducted by the fathers of the Society of Jesus, for day scliolars 
only. 



SCHOOLS. 



SCHOOLS. 



The Public Schools are among the promineru ieatiires of the 
N'ational Capital. Of the buildino-s are the I'l anUin^ 1st dis- 
trict, cor. 13th and K sts. N'W., brick, 148 X 79 ft., basement 
and three storfes, erected in 1869, and contains 14 school-rooms. 
This is said to be one of the finest school buildings in the Uni- 
ted States. Tlie Seaton^ 2d district, on I, bet. 2d and 3d sts. 
NW.. brick, 94 X 67 feet, basement and 3 stories, erected in 
1871. The Wallach^ 3d district, Pennsylvania av., bet. 7th 
and 8th sts. SE., brick, 99 X 76 ft., basement and three sto- 
ries, erected in 1864. The Jefferson^ 4tli district, cor. of 6th 
and D sts. SW., brick, 172 X 88 ft, basement and 3 stories, 
with 20 school-rooms, erected in 1872. This is the largest 
school building in the city. It will accommodate 1,200 pupils. 
It is named after Thomas Jefferson, President of the United 
States, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Public 
Schools of Washington, and president of the same 180o-'08. 
There are also fine grounds. 

In the four school districts there are 43 school buildings, 
owned or rented by the city. The oldest still standing was 
erected in 1800 for a stable, cor. 14th and G sts. IS'W. 

The Colored Schools are distinct from those attended by 
white children. Prior to 1862 there were no colored public 
schools. Subsequently the schools were under charitable 
associations of the North. 

The first building was erected in 1866, on the square now 
occupied by tlie Sumner building. 

The Sumner Building^ on the NE. corner of M and 17th 
sts. :N"W., was completed in 1872, at a cost of $70,000. It is 
94 ft. long, by 09 ft. wide, and lias a basement, 3 stories, a,nd 
a trussed roof. In it are 10 school-rooms. There are 13 
public schools foi- colored childi-en. 

The annual expenditures are about $318,000, One thir'^ 
of tills sum is set apart for colored schools. The total school 
population is 17,403. In 1805 the revenues for the support 
of schools were derived from the net proceeds of taxes on 
slaves, dogs, licenses for carriages and hacks, ordinaries and 
taverns, selling wines and spirits, billiard tables, hawkers 
and pedlers, theatres and other public amusements. In 1806 
there were the E. and W. academies. In 1826 the schools 
were supported by lottery. There is now a school tax. The 
public schools were quartered in rented rooms, prior to the 



ASYLUMS. 



ASYLUMS. 



There are a number of public and private institutions for the 
destitute and sick. 

Naval Hospital {open after 12 noon^ during the week^ if no 
severe cases) occupies the square between 9th and 10th sts. 
E. and E st. S. and Pennsylvania av. It is accessible from 
the Pennsylvania av. street cars (red) for the liiavj Yard, at 
E St. The hospital is under the Bureau of Medicine and 
Surgery of the Navy denartment, and is open to officers and 
men of the navy and marine corps. The building consists 
of a three-story brick edifice, with mansard, and possesses 
accommodations for 50 patients. There is a reading-room for 
convalescents. A medical director in the navy is in charge. 
Naval discipline is observed. 

National Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan Home, on G st. be- 
tween 17th and 18th sts. NW., (open to visitors every day^ 
except Sunday^ after 9 a. w.,) was incorporated by Congress 
in 1866, and is supported by Government appropriations. It 
is under the direction of a Board of Lady Managers, and is for 
the support and education of the orphans of the national sol- 
diers or sailors who were killed or died of wounds in the re- 
bellion of 1861-'65. No applicants are received younger than 
6 years, nor retained after 16 years. 

Columbia Hospital for Women, and Lying-in Asylum, 
incorporated 1866, {visiting days Tuesdays and Fridays^ from 
10 a. m. to 4 p. m.,) is on the corner of L and 25th sts. NW. 
The general wards for 50 patients are free to the wives of sol- 
diers, on the permit of the Surgeon General ; to women of 
other States, on permit of the Secretary of the Interior ; and 
to women of the District, on permit of the Governor. There 
are also private rooms and special wards for 30 patients, for 
the use of which a small compensation is required. Connected 
with the hospital is an operating room, used for fi-ee patients 
only, and open every Saturday at 3.30 p. m., to students of 
medicine in the District. In the W. wing is a dispensary^ 
open every day, where the poor receive medicines and treat- 
ment free. The institution is principally supported by the 
National Government. 

Washington Asylum {open every day, except Sunday) is sit- 
uated in the extreme E. portion of tlie city, on the public 
reservation. No. 17, laid out for the purpose. It may be 
reached in 15 min. along C st. S., leaving the Pennsylvania 



204 



ASYLUMS. 



av. street cars (red) at that point. The institution combines 
an asylum for the poor of the District, and a work-house for 
persons convicted in the police courts of minor crimes except 
theft. There are accommodations in the brick buildings for 
180 persons. The first building was erected in 1815, but the 
present one in 1859. On the I^. is the District jail, and S. the 
District nurseries, and beyond, the Army and Kavy maga 
zines. About ^ m. distant, SW., is the ^'Congressional" 
Cemetery. 

Louise Home, {open to visitors every day^ except Sunday^ 
after 12 noon^) erected in 1871, was tlie gift of Mr. Corcoran. 
It is situated on Massachusetts av., bet. 15th and 16th sts. 
W. Its design is for gentlewomen of education and refine- 
ment, but reduced to poverty. It is named after the wife 
and daughter of Mr. Corcoran, both deceased. The build- 
ing, a commodious structure, was erected and furnished un- 
der the personal supervision of Mr. Corcoran, and, with the 
gi'ounds, cost $200,000, and has accommodations for 55 per- 
sons. The institution is under the direction of a board of 
trustees, and has an endowment of $250,000. The inmates 
are hivited by the board of directresses. 

Providence General Hospital, cor. 2d and D sts. SE., {open 
every day ^ from 10 to 12 a m. and '2 to 4: p. m.) The hospital 
is owned and under the care of the Sisters of Charity. It 
was founded in 1862, incorporated in 1864, and the present 
building commenced in 1867. It is about 280 ft. long, of 
brick, and will accommodate 250 patients. Towards the 
erection of the building, through Thaddeus Stevens, of Penn., 
Congress appropriated $30,000. There is now an annual ap- 
propriation for 75 non-resident paupers. Indigent persons 
receive permits from the Surgeon General of tlie Army, but 
any one applying is taken in. The accommodations for pay 
patients are very superior. Tiiere is a medical staff of 12 
physicians; also, a reading-room, library, chapel, and oper- 
ating-room. 

The Washington City Orphan Asylum, on I, bet. 2d and 3d 
sts. KW.. was founded in 1815, Dolly P. Madison, wife of the 
President of the United States, being first directress and Mrs. 
Van Xess second. It was incorporated in 1828, and the cor- 
ner-stone of the first building was laid by Mrs. Van N'ess on 
Mausoleum square, on H, bet. 9th and 10th sts. NW., the 
burial-ground of the Burns family. The building is now oc- 
cupied by the St. Joseph's Orphan Asylum. It is under 
the direction of the benevolent ladies of tlie city. The present 



ASYLUMS. 205 

building is but temporarily occupied, that erected for the per- 
manent use of the Asylum being now rented bj'- the Depart- 
ment of State. 

Children's Hospital, on E, bet. 8th and 9th sts. NW., (visit- 
ing days Sundays^ Tuesdays^ and Fridays^ from 3 to 5 p. tw.,) 
incorporated in 1871. It is under the patronage of benevo- 
lent ladies and gentlemen, of the city, and has for its object 
the free provision of surgical and medical treatment for the 
helpless children of the District between tlie ages of 15 mos. 
and 15 yrs. Admissions through the Board Physicians. Tlie 
sick of the City Orphan Asylum are also treated here. There 
is a free dispensary connected with the hospital, open to all 
every day except Sunday, from 12 m. to 3 p. m. 

St. Jolm's Hosjpital, for children, (visiting days Mondays 
and Thursdays, Jrom 2 to o p. w.,) on I, bet. 20th and 21st 
sts. NW., is under the St. Jolm's Sisterhood of the Episcopal 
Church. The Hospital will shortly occupy its new premises, 
on H, bet. 19th and 20th sts. NW. 

St. Ann's Infant Asylum, founded in 1863, is on the corner 
of K and 24th sts. NW., {visiting days Thursdays, from 2 to 5 
p.m.) It is under the management of the Sisters of Charity, 
and for the children, under 5 years, of the poor. There is a 
lying-in hospital attached. 

St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum, founded in 1855, (visit- 
ing days Saturdays, from 2 to 5 p. m.^) on H, bet. 9th and 10th 
sts. NW., is under the care of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. 
The male cliildren at St. Ann's, arriving at 5 years of age, 
are sent here. The building previously belonged to the 
Washington City Orphan Asylum, and was purchased in 
1866. 

St, Vincent's Pemale Orphan Asylum, founded in 1831, 
(visiting every day, except Saturday and Sunday, bet. 9 and 11 
a. m.,) is on the SW. cor. of H and 10th sts. NW. It is under 
the care of the Sisters of Charity. To this are transferred the 
female children at St. Ann's arriving at 5 years of age. 

A branch of this asylum, St. Eose''s Orphan Home, estab- 
lished in 1871, and owned and cared for by the Sisters of 
Charity, is situated on G, bet. 20th and 21st sts. NW. Here 
the children, 13 years of age, are sent and taught a trade. 
It is open at any time, and sewing of all kinds for ladies and 
children is taken. 

The Epiphany Church Home is on H, bet. 14th and 15th 
sts. W. 



20^ 



CEMETERIES. 



The Home for tlie Aged, under the Little Sisters of the 
Poor, is on the NW. cor. of 3cl and H sts. KE. 



CEMETERIES. 

Two squares known as the Eastern and Western Burial- 
grounds, were allotted by the Government, in the beginning 
of the present century, for the interment of the dead. The 
Eastern^ which stood in the eastern part of the city, was re- 
moved a few years since. The Western^ later known as 
Holmead Cemetery^ on 19th St., bet. S and T sts. NW., is be- 
ing removed. Here, for 40 years, rested the remains of Lo- 
renzo Dow, removed to Oak Hill Cemetery in 1874. 

Congressional (or Washington Parish) Cemetery, {open every 
day., except Sunday^) is situated on the banks of the Anacos- 
tia, and is accessible from the Washington and Georgetown 
Street Railway East, 
along E. St. S., dis- 
tant J m. The Cem- 
etery, laid out in 
1807, originally com- 
prised about 10 a., 
but now embraces 30 
a. The name Con- 
gressional originated 
h-om the fact that a 
number of sites are 
set apart for the in- 
terment of members 
of Congress, in re- 
turn for Government 
donations of land and 
money. The small 
freestone cenotaphs, 
to the memory of de- 
ceased members of 

Congress, form a conspicuous feature. The grounds are 
adorned with drives, walks, trees, shrubs, evergreens, and a 
large fountain. 

The oldest graves lie N. of the lodge, and are of date 1804-5. 
Near the superintendent's lodge is the grave of Commodore 
Tingey, second in command in the Algerine war. In the NE. 
portion lies George Clinton, of New York, Vice President 
of the United States, died in 1811, andElbridge Gerry, of Mass- 




CONGEESSIONAL CEMETERY, CENOTAPHS. 



CEMETERIES. 

achnsetts, signer of the Declaration of Independence and 
Yice President of the United States, died in 1814. This 
monument was erected by act of Congress. Not far off is 
the gi-ave of Tobias Lear, private secretary and friend of 
George Washington, died in 1816. Near by are the graves 
of John Forsyth, Secretary of State, and Commodore Mont- 
gomery. On the 1. of the walk is the monument of Pus-ma- 
ta-ha, a Choctaw chief, the white man's friend, who died at 
Washington in 1824. Further on is the monument to AVil- 
liam Wirt, Attorney General of the United States 1817-1829, 
died 1834. On the 1. of the carriage road, near the fountain, 
is the grave of General Alexander Macomb, Commander-in- 
chief of the United States Army, who died 1841. This mon- 
ument is a handsome piece of workmanship, appropriately 
embellished and inscribed. A few feet off stands a broken 
shaft over the remains of Major General Jacob Brown, Com- 
mander-in-chief of the United States Army, died 1828. 

In the same vicinity is a monument to Abel Parker Up- 
shiu-. Secretary of the Navy 1841, Secretary of State 1843, 
died 1844, and Captain Kennon, killed by the explosion of 
the great gun on board the United States frigate Princeton. 
A few paces off stands the coUossal monument to Joseph 
Lovel, Surgeon General of the United States Army, died 
1836. Near by is the monument erected to Major General 
George Gibson, U. S. A., Commissary General of Subsist- 
ence, 1861, and to Frederick Rogers, midshipman in the 
United States Na\y, drovmed at 'Norfolk, Va., 1828, while 
making efforts to save Midshipmen Slidell and Harrison, his 
friends and companions in life and death. 

Among others are the Wainwi-ight family, consisting of 
Commodore Richard Wainwright, Bvt. Lt. Col. R. Auch- 
matty Wainwright, Bvt. Lt. Col. Robert DeWar, of the 
United States Navy. All of these lie in the Wainwi-ight 
vault, in the southern extremity of the grounds. In the S. 
portion is the tomb of Alexander Dallas Bache, Superin- 
tendent of United States Coast Survey service. Also a mar- 
ble monument, representing a broken ship's mast, to George 
Mifflin Bache, of the brig Washington, and his associates, 
who perished at sea on September 3, 1846, in a hurricane. 
Not far distant is the monument erected to the young ladies 
killed by the arsenal explosion. 

The vaults and lots of some of the oldest citizens of the 
District are also in this cemetery. 

The public vault, erected by Congress, lies SE. of thi- 
f^ntrance, about the centre of the cemetery. It is a massive 
structure, entered by an iron door, which leads through a 
passage to a second iron door. 



20B DISTRICT GOVERNMENT. 



DISTRICT GOVERNMENT. 

The provisional government of the District of Columbia 
occupies a building on 4J st. W., near Pennsylvania av. It 
is proposed to erect a suitable edifice on the space immedi- 
ately N. of the Centre Market. 

lire Department.— The force consists of 8 Steam Fire En- 
gines, 3 Hook and Ladder Companieswith ofiicers and 4 
horses and 10 men to each Engine. The service is under a 
Board of Fire Commissioners. There is also a Fire Alarm 
Telegraphy with the Central Station at Police Headquarters. 
The buildings were erected by the city, and have every con- 
venience. The foreman will show visitors everj'^thing of 
interest. 



In the early days housekeepers were required to have a certain number of buckets, 
writh their names, for each story. In 1835 there were two fire engines, and in 1846 
«even. In 1861 the National Government engaged the services of the Hibernia 
Steam Fire Engine, of Philadelphia, and brought the first steamer to Washington, 
as a means of protection for the immense quantities of Government stores. In 1864 
the paid system went into operation. The Government then owned three steam fire 
engines, and the corporation three, and one Hook and Ladder Company. In i86g 

the government steamers were withdrawn, and the present organization 

inaugurated. 

Metropolitan Police. — This was established in 1861. In 
1866 a police telegraph was constructed. The police force 
consists of 238 officers and men, with duties extending 
throughout the entire District. There are 8 precincts. 

District Jail— The present jail of the District of Columbia 
compietea in 1875, stands on Reservation No. 13, on the 
banks of the Anacostiaand N. of the Washington Asylum. 



The plan has an outer range of one-storied buildings of solid masonry, forming 
the enclosure of the jail proper. The latter is built of Maryland (Seneca) stone, 
brick, and iron, four stories high, with ranges of cells on each floor, joo in all. Be- 
tween the inner building and the outer walls there is a space of i6 ft. under the 
surveillance of the guards. 

The building is jio by 193 ft., and from the stone base to the main cornice 50 ft. 
high, to the ridge 68 ft., and to the top of the cupola go ft. On either end of the 
building are ventilating shafts 86 ft. high, and, in conjunction with steam pipes 
under each tier of cells, preserve a regular temperature. The centre of the building 
forms a guard room 77 x 61 ft., from the floor of which springs the staircases to 
each tier of cells. The W. projection contains the warden's office, guard and 
witness rooms ; the E., a chapel and kitchen ; the basement, the laundry and bath 
rooms. The structure was designed by A. B. Mullett, commenced in 1872, and 
cost $400,000. It can be easily converted into a penitentiary. 



THE MARKETS. 209 



THE MARKETS. 

The country around the N'ational Capital produces fine 
vegetables of all descriptions, and the Potomac river and 
Chesapeake Bay aflbrd not only fish and oysters unexcelled 
and in great quantities, but admirable facilities for supplying 
the Markets with tlie earlier produce of more southern lati- 
tudes. The best qualities of meats and the finest game, 
aquatic and field, are also olTered for sale at cheaper rates 
than other large cities. There are four principal markets in 
the city, two already accommodated with very fine perma- 
nent buildings. Strangers would find the markets a most 
interesting place for a visit. 

The largest is the Centre Market^ erected by the Washington 
Market Company in 1870, comprising three commodious brick 
structures — a central building and two wings — length from 
E. to W., 410 ft., and which occupy the S. half of the square 
between 7th and 9th sts. W., on the S. side of Pennsylvania 
av., and accessible by liorse cars on that av. and 7th and 9th 
sts. Market every day. 

The Eastern Market^ on Capitol Hill, at the junction of 7th 
St. E. and North Carolina av., completed in 1873, is also a 
fine lai'ge brick structure. 

The Western Market^ on K between 20th and 21st sts. NW., 
and the Northern Market^ between 6th and 7th and O and P 
sts. KW., at present temporarily occupy sheds. Brick struc- 
tures of large dimensions are now in coi,u"se of erection for 
tlieir accommodation. In the original plan of the city, 1791, 
there were three reservations for the E., W., and Centre 
Markets ; the latter, however, is the only one erected on the 
site originally set apart. 

The Northern Liberty Market^ on 5tli, bet. K and L sts. 
NW., J. H. McGill, architect, erected 1874-'5 by the North- 
ern Liberty Market Company, is one of the finest market 
structures in the United States. It is of brick, 324 ft. long, 
126 ft. wide, and 105 ft. total height. The roof rests upon 
massive iron girders, the hirgest of the kind in the world, 
which form an imposing arch the entire width of the build- 
ing. In the butchers' portion tliere are 28 sections, 17 x 19 ft., 
each containing 4 stalls. Cost, $140,000. On the E. is a 
paved space for the accommodation of market wagons. 

14 



210 PLACES OF HISTORICAL INTEREST. 



PLACES OF HISTORICAL INTEREST. 

The residence of Gen. J. P. Van ISTess still stands on what 
was known as Mansion Square, about 6 a., at the foot of 17th 
St. W., between B and C sts. N., and where the Tiber then 
emptied its waters into tlie Potomac. It was previously the 
residence of David Burns, one of the original proprietors of 
the site of Washington, who owned, by inheritance through 
several generations of Scottish ancestors, what now consti- 
tute the finest portions of the city. Cen. Van Ness, a repre- 
sentative from New York, by his marriage, about 1802, with 
Marcia Burns, sole heiress of the Burns estate, enlarged the 
buildings, erected green houses, planted trees and fruits, and 
made other improvements, then considered very superior. 
The place was then one of the finest in the country. The 
square is enclosed by a brick wall, with a fine gateway and 
two lodges. Many of the venerable trees are still growing. 
The Van Ness warehouse, on the line of 17th st., is still stand- 
ing, though very dilapidated. The Washington canal ran just 
S. of it. Attorney General William Wirt occupied the fine 
old mansion, now the National Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan 
Asylum, on G St., between 17th and 18th sts. W. The Old 
Capitol, now converted into private residences, stands on the 
NW. corner of A and 1st sts. NE. Congress met here after 
the burning of the Capitol in 1814. During the war it was 
used as a political prison. Wirz, the prison keeper of Ander- 
son viUe, was executed here. 

On North Carolina av., between 1st and 2d sts. SE., stands 
the venerable mansion of Duddington, owned by Daniel Car- 
roll, one of the original proprietors of the site of Washington, 



SECTION y. 



ENVIRONS OP WASHINGTON. 




lEORGETOWlSr, or West Washington, the Fort of 
Entry of the District of Columbia, and head of 
on the Potomac river, population 12,- 
578, lies northwest of Washington, from which it 
is separated by Rock Creek. The site is very 
picturesque, affording fine views of the Potomac 
and the Capital. 

It was founded by George Gordon and George Beall, and incorporated in 
1789. Before 1800 it enjoyed a brisk river coast and foreign commerce. In 1880, 
the city of Georgetown was designated West Washington. The names of the 
streets (October 4, 1880,) were then officially changed as follows: North St., to 
be known as 26th Street; Monroe and Mill, as 27th; Rock, as Rock; Mont- 
gomery, 28th ; Greene, 29th ; Washington, 30th ; Jefferson, Jefferson ; Congress, 
31st; Valley, Valley ; High, 32d ; Potomac, Potomac ; Market, 33d; Frederick, 
34th ; Fayette, 35th ; Lingan, 36th ; Warren, 37th ; Water, Water ; South, 
South ; Grace, Grace ; Neidwood, L ; Aqueduct, Pennsylvania Av. ; Bridge, 
M ; Olive, Olive ; Prospect, Prospect ; Gay, N ; First, N ; Dumbarton, Dum- 
ba -ton ; Beall and Second, O ; West and Third, P ; Stoddard and Fourth, Q ; 
Fifth, R ; Sixth, S ; Seventh, T; Eighth and Road, U. The houses on the N. 
and E. sides of the streets bear odd, and S. and W. even numbers, twenty-foot 
front representing a number. 




GEORGETOWN AND AQUEDUCT. 

Georgetown may be reached from Washington by the 
Metropolitan^ F St., (Georgetown cars.) and the Washington 
and Georgetown^ Pennsylvania av. horse cars. Arriving by 
the former at Washington st., a short walk leads to Oak 
Hill Cemetery^ {open every day except Sundays and holidays^ 
fi-om sunrise to sunset.) The original grounds, 10 a., incor-' 
porated by Congress, 1849, was the gift of W. W. Corcoran, 




212 GEORGETOWN. 

from whom it has an endownent of $120,000. The present 
area is 30 a. It occupies a romantic spot, formerly Parrotts 
woods, on the north- 
ern slope of George- 
town Heights, at the 
base of which winds 
Rock creeli, and has a 
fine chapel and public 
vault of the time of 
Henry VIII. 

Here is the Van Ness Mau- 
soleum, designed by Hadfield, 
after the Temple of Vesta at 
Rome, erected by Gen. Van 
Ness, and containing the re- 
mains of the General and his 
wife, Marcia Van Ness, nee 
Burns, of the family of David 
Burns, one of the original pro- van ness mausoleum. 

prietors of Washington. It 

formerly stood on H, bet. 9th and loih sts. NW., Washington. In this Cemetery 
are the Corcoran Mausoleum, in white marble, Linthicum Memorial Chapel, the 
graves of Chief Justice Chase, Secretary Stanton, Generals Towson, of the war of 
1812, Plummer and Reno, killed in i86i.'65. Commodore Morris, distinguished in 
the Algerine war, and Lorenzo Dow, the religious enthusiast, removed from Hoi 
mead Cemetery in 1S74. 

Returning 1?o the same line of street-cars, and alighting on 
the r. side, at Market St., at the head of the street is the George- 
town High-Service Reservoir. The same point may be reached 
by turning to the r. outside the cemetery gate, and follow- 
ing Road st. to the corner of High. It consists of a domical 
reservoir, of brick, 120 ft. in diameter, with a capacity of 
1,000,000 galls., and is fed from the Aqueduct mains at the 
bridge over Rock creek by 2 pumps. The surface-water is 
215 ft. above tide and 70 ft. above the Distributing Reservoir. 
It supplies all that part of Georgetown over 100 ft. above tide. 

Descending the st. a short distance towards the citj'', and 
following the track to Fayette st., on the opposite corner is 
the Convent of the Visitation^ founded in 1799, but not now 
open to visitors. The Academy^ under the care of the Sisters 
of the Visitation, was founded at the same time, and occupies 
the building on the N., rebuilt in 1873, and is open to visitors 
on Wednesdays and Saturdays after 12 noon. The entrance 
is by the door of the new building, where visitors will be re- 
ceived and conducted through the school. There are two de- 
partments : primary for girls from 6 to 12 years, and senior, 
for young ladies of all school ages. There is a fine philosoph- 
ical apparatus, chemical laboratory, and library. The Acade- 
my grounds comprise 40 a. Attached to the Convent is a vault 
containing the remains of Archbishop Keale, second Bishop 
of Baltimore, and foun(ier of the institution, the daughter of 
Madame Yturbide, and che daughter of Gen. WinfieM Scott, 



214 GEORGETOWN. 

a religieuse of the order. It is the oldest in the country. 
At tlie W. end of 2d st., Georgetown, is Georgetown College^ 
{open every day except Sunday^) founded in 1789, raised to a 
University in 1815, and the oldest Koman Catholic College 
in the country. It is under the care of the Fathers of the 
Society of Jesus. 

The original building, of imported brick, is still standing on the S., and is flanked 
by two of more modern construction. Boys of all ages are received and carried 
through an entire course of instruction. The library contains 30,000 volumes, 
amongst which are many rare and curious works. There are 100 volumes printed 
between 1460 and 1520, and three manuscripts anterior to 1400, and others later. In 
the Museum is a valuable collection of coins and medals and relics of Commodore 
Decatur. The Observatory is 400 yds. distant, on the W. (For Medical and Law 
Departments see page 201.) 

There are also fine Custom and Market Houses^ Post Office^ 
and many beautiful church edifices. On 2d and Potomac sts. 
is the Public School, 79x97 ft.', built 1874, of Potomac Seneca 
stone, brick, and iron ; has 3 stories, basement, and Mansard, 
was designed by Adolf Cluss, and cost $70,000. 

The building contains 8 school-rooms, a room for the Linthicum Institute and the 
Peabtdy Library^ and a Hall capable of seating 900 persons. The Linthicum Insti- 
tute was founded in 1872 by Edward Linthicum, a retired hardware merchant of 
Georgetown, deceased 1872, who by will left $50,000 for the education of poor 
white boys. The Peabody Library fund^ $22,000, was one of the numerous bene- 
factions of the American philanthropist and millionaire George Peabody. 

At the foot of the hill is the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. 

The Potomac Company, chartered by Maryland In 1784, completed a canal before 
iSooaround the Little and Great Falls. These efforts were followed by the charter, 
by Congress, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia^ of the present enterprise. 
Work was commenced in 1828. The object was the connection of tide-water on the 
Potomac with the head of navigation on the Ohio, a distance of 360 m. In 1841 
the canal was opened to Cumberland, 182 m., at a cost of $13,000,000, of which 
Maryland subscribed $5,000,000, the United States $1,000,000, Washington, 1,000,- 
000, and Georgetown, Alexandria, and Virginia, each, $250,000. Cumberland re- 
mains the terminus. The execution of the enterprise was a work of great difficulty. 
There are 75 locks of 100 ft. in length, 15 ft. in width, and averaging 8 ft. lift; li 
aqueducts crossing the Monocacy river, consisting of 7 arches of 54 ft. span ; also 190 
culverts of various dimensions, some sufficiently spacious to admit of the passage of 
wagons. The canal is fed by a number of dams across the Potomac, varying from 
500 to 800 ft. in length, and from 4 to 20 ft. elevation. The breadth of the canal is 
60 ft. for the first 60 m. above Georgetown, and for the remaining distance to Cum 
berland 50 ft., with a uniform depth of 6 ft. The entire lift is about 600 ft. The 
aqueducts, locks, and culverts are constructed of stone laid in hydraulic cement. 
The tunnel through the " Pawpaw Ridge " is 3,118 ft. in length and 24 ft. in diam- 
eter, with an elevation of 17 ft. clear of the surface of the water. The canal con- 
nects with Rock creek. From this point a canal, now out of use or filled, extended 
across Washington to the Anacostia. The canal to Cumberland opens the im- 
mensely valuable and rich coal sections of western Maryland and West Virginia. 
The unfinished portion of the canal trom Cumberland to Pittsburg is 178 m. 

The Alexandria Canal, incorporated by Congress in 1830, 
crosses the Potomac on a fine Aqueduct 1,400 ft. long and 36 
ft. above high water. The piers are embedded 17 ft. in the 
bottom of the river, and are capable of resisting the immense 
weight of ice thrown against them by the current of the river 
in winter. 

A very interesting feature of the city are the coal wharves. 



ARLINGTON HOUSE AND NATIONAL CEIV|ETERY. 215 



where the coal is transhipped into schooners for transporta- 
tion to the ports on the Atlantic seaboard. Georgetown is 
one of the largest shad and herring markets in the United 
States. The manufacturing interests of the city are small. 

At the E. end of Bridge st. is Rock-creek Bridge^ connect- 
ing the two cities. 

It consists of a 200-ft. span, with 20 ft. rise, the arch formed by two lateral 
courses of cast-iron pipe, 4 ft. internal diameter, and ii<^ in. in thickness. The 
arch is supported on massive abutments of sandstone. The pipes convey the water 
of the Aqueduct across the stream, and at the same time carry a street road and horse 
railway. Here the Pennsylvania av. street cars may be taken back to Washington. 

Analostan, or Mason's Island, the large tract in the Potomac 
river, opposite Georgetown, contains 70 a., and was the res- 
idence of Gen. John Mason, commissary general of prisoners 
in the war of 1812. 

The Mansion still stands at the S. end, 50 ft. above the river. The now neg- 
lected grounds were also beautifully adorned. A causeway on the Virginia side and 
ferry-boat from Georgetown in former times afforded communication with the main 
land. James M. Mason, Confederate Commissioner to Europe, was born on the island 




AKLaNUXOM UOUSB. 

Arlington House and ITatlonal Cemetery.— (Ojoe/i to visit- 
ors every da !{.) Arlingroii IToiis;', fi-oni 1802, was the rcsi- 



216 FORT WHIPPLE. 

dence of George Washington Parke Custis, the adopted son of 
Gren. Washington, and in late years of Gen. Kobert E. Lee, 
till 1861. It is on the Virginia shore of the Potomac, on the 
summit of a hill, 200 ft. above the river. It is about 4 m. from 
the Capitol, and about 1 m. from Georgetown, across the 
Aqueduct bridge . The view of Washington is without a rival. 
The center building, 60 ft., and two wings, each 40 ft., gives 
a frontage of 140 ft. In front is a portico 60 ft. long and 
25 ft. deep. The pediment rests on 8 doric columns (6 in 
front) 5 ft. in diameter and 26 ft. high, built of brick, stuc- 
coed. The design was from drawings of the temple at Paes- 
tum, near Naples. On the S. are the gardens and conserva- 
tory. In the rear are the kitchens, slave quarters, and stables. 

In the mansion, when occupied by its former possessors, were valuable pictures and 
other objects of historic interest. 

Arlington House in its halcyon days was famed for its 
hospitality. The last proprietor, Gen. Lee, came in posses- 
sion through his wife, who was the daughter of ]\Ir. Custis. 
Eb,vuiggone over to the rebellion against the National Govern- 
ment, and become its military chieftain, the estate, upwards 
of 1,000 a., was abandoned. In 1863 it was sold under the 
confiscation act, and in 1864 was taken possession of by the 
National Government. About 200 a. were set apart as a 
National Cemetery for the interment of deceased soldiers of 
the army. The Cemetery was formally established in 1867. 
In the rear and 1. of the mansion is an amphitheatre^ capable 
of accommodating 5,000 persons, erected in 1873, and designed 
for use in the annual ceremonies observed on decoration day. 

The grounds were laid out with special reference to the 
purposes in view. The bodies of nearly 16,000 soldiers, from 
many a battle-field in Virginia and the hospitals at the capital, 
here find a fitting resting place. The W. Cemetery is devoted 
to white, and the N. to colored troops. A short distance S. 
of mansion is a granite sarcophagus^ surmounted by cannon 
and balls, in 1866 placed over the grave of 2,111 unknown 
soldiers gathered after the war from the fields of Bull Run 
and the route to the Rappahannock. The carriage entrance 
is on the SE., through a freestone gateway of composite 
order, erected in 1873. On the frieze are suitable inscrip- 
tions, and over the arch "Here rest 15,585 of the 315,558 
citizens who died in defence of our country from 1861 to 
1865." On the 1. of the road leading from the main gate- 
way towards the river is the once-famous Custis spring. 
In 1850 it was visited from the capital by thousands of resi- 
dents and strangers. 

Fort Myer, reached by the road to the r. soon after 
crossing the Georgetown Aqueduct, lies a short distance NW. 
of Ai-liniitfMi House. It is now a station for the instruccuhi 



AQUEDUCT AND GREAT PALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 217 



of oflSceis and men in army signalling. It was built during 
the rebellion, and constituted portion of the defenses cover- 
ing the Aqueduct and Long Bridge, and the intermediate 
Heights of Arlington. Then it mounted 6 12-lb. Napoleon 
gmis and 4 12-lb. howitzers. 

The Aqueduct and Great Falls of the Potomac— One of 
the most interesting excursions out of Washington is the drive 
by the Aqueduct to the Great Falls of the Potomac. 

— _ _ ^^^^^ _ _ Table of distances from the 

Navy-yard to ihcGreat Falls : 
From the Navy-yard to the 
E. front of the Capitol, 1^ 
m ; to Rock-Creek Bridge, 4 
j-5 m ; College-Pond Bridge, 
5j-5m; Foundry Branch, 6 
m; Pipe Vault Dist. Res, 
614 m ; Influent Gate House, 
7 m ; Waste Weir, 7)^ mj 
Gate House Rec. Res., 9 m; 
Wooden Bridge Rec. Res., 9 




Brooks's Road, 9^ 
in Bridge, li}^ 



THfl GREAT FALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 



^^r^^ ^ a. J^^^HH^^^i^^^^^^ ^ ^ Mountain-Spring Bridge. 

\lYy m ; CulvertNo. 12, i4Vi 
m;"Road at RadclilTs, is)| 
m ; Junction Road, 16 J-J 
m ; Bridge No. z, 17 1-5 m ; 
Bridge No. i, 171^ m ; Ov- 
erfall No. 1. 16 m ; Waste 
Weir No. i, i8>^ m; Great 
Falls Gate House, 18^ m. 

Entering George- 
town from Pennsyl- 
vania av. the Aque- 
duct may be reached by Bridge and Fayette sts., and new 
road to the Distributing Reservoir^ a distance of 2 m. 

The water surface of the reservoir is J3 a; capacity, 1 50,000, ocx) galls, at depth of 
II ft., and joo,ooo,ocx3 galls, at 24 ft ; elevation, 144 ft. above mean tide at thl Navy- 
yard. 

From this point the water is carried by iron mains into the city. [See Water Sup- 
ply^ p. 46.] The Aqueduct terminates here, the influent gate-house standing on 
the NW. corner. A 7-ft. Auxiliary Conduit connects the influent and affluent gate- 
houses on the N. which may be used independently of the reservoir. 

The Aqueduct consists of a cylindrical conduit, of 9 ft. in- 
ternal diameter, constructed of stone and brick, laid in hy- 
draulic cement, and covered by an embanlanent or tunneled 
through the hills, and is c^irried across the streams by means 
of magnificent bridges, and has a faU of 9^ in. to the m. The 
capacity of the conduit, full, is 80 000,000 galls, every 24 hrs. 
The present mains carry ofi" 30,000,300 galls. ; the consump- 
tion, however, is but 17,000,000. 

From the Distributing Reservoir is a beautiful drive, 2 m. 
on the embankment of the Aqueduct, to Receiving Reservoir. 



218 AQUEDUCT AND GREAT FALLS OF THE POTOMAC. 



The scenery on all sides is romantic in the extreme. On the 1. is the Potomac 
and the Little Falls. The Receiving Reservoir^ a natural basin, formed by an em- 
bankment 65 ft. high, across Powder-Mill Creek, retains the water within the en- 
circling arms of the surrounding hills. It has a surface area of 52. a., a greatest 
depth of 53 ft., and drains 40,000 a. of the adjacent country. The Sluice Tower is 
in the S. end. A conduit extends around the S. side, connecting the Aqueduct, 
without passing through the Receiving Reservoir. The capacity Is 163,000,000 galls. 
The NW. boundary of the District crosses the Reservoir just beyond the Sluiee 
Tower. The height of water in the Reservoir is controlled by a channel cut in the 
solid rock. The Aqueduct enters through a tunnel 800 ft. in length, and pierced 
through solid rock. 

Resaming the embankment, Cabin-John Bridge is reached, 
■? in. distant. 

This magnificent struc- 
ture springs the chasm of 
Cabin-John Creek at a 
height of lof ft. The 
bridge is erected of im- 
mense blocks of granite, 
with Seneca parapets and 
coping, and leaps the ra- 
iine in a single arch of 
2.Z0 ft. with 573^ ft. rise 
from thespringing line. 

The bridge is 20 ft. 
wide, and its extreme 
length 420 ft. It cost 
$237,000. This magnifi- 
cent work of art is un- 
equalled in the histor/ of 
bridge building. It is the 
largest stone arch in the 
world ; the second being 
that of the Grovesner 
Bridge, with a span of 200 
ft which crosses the river 
Dee. One mile above is 
Mountain- Spring Brooi., 
crossed by a beautiful el- 
liptical arch of masonry, 
75 ft span. The bridge 
IS 200 ft. long, and cost 
$76,000. From this point 
the Aqueduct is conducted by means of 2 tunnels. 

About jj/^ m. from the Great Falls a road leads around the hills. Before reaching 
the faliS the scenery becomes exceedingly picturesque. The river is divided into 
two channels by Cupid's Bower and Bear Islands, the latter the upper. At the falls 
the river is again formed into two channels by Conn's and Great Falls islands, the 
former the upper, and forms the Maryland and Virginia channels. Across the former 
is a dam of solid masonry, with gate-house and gates. This dam, should there be oc- 
casion, will be extended to the Virginia side. The Government owns the water- 
right, having 5 a. of ground. The dam is faced with massive guards of stone. The 
total water supply of the river is 1,196,019,511 galls, in 24 hrs. At this point the 
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is carried over the Aqueduct. 

At the Great Falls the Potomac breaks through the mountain in a channel nar- 
rowing to 100 yds. in width, and bounded on the Virginia side by perpendicular 
rocks 70 ft. high. The water falls over a series of cascades, making a descent of 80 
ft. in ij/^ m., the greatest single pitch being 40 ft. At a distance of 4 m. it widens, 
and its agitated waters quiet into an unbroken current. About 10 m. below, at 
the Little Falls^ about 3 m. above Georgetown, the stream makes a descent of 37 ft. 
in a series of cascades. Released from the mountains, after passing Georgetown, the 
river widens into the lake-like stream which we have seen in front of Washington. 




CABIN-JOHN BRIDGE 



COLUMBIAN UNIVERSITY. 219 

There is a fine view of the Falls from either side, the ledges and rugged boulden 
Appearing to advantage. Mingling with the wild aspect of nature is the cedar, oak, 
willow, birch, and jessamine. Wild cherries and strawberries in season are found in 
great abundance. The most venomous reptiles abound. The scene in winter is en- 
chanting, great masses of ice piled up on either side, and the rocks and trees frosted 
with spray, form a charming surrounding for the boiling torrent in the channel. 

HlStO'^y. — Surveys for the supply of the city with water were made by Major 
L'Enfant, unaer the direction of Washington. In 1S50 surveys were made by Col. 
Hughes from the Great Falls and Rock creek. The first ground on the Washington 
Aqueduct was broken by President Pierce on Nov. 8, 1S53, in the presence of a large 
assemblage of ofiicials and civilians. The length of pipe line is 18 m. ; number of 
culverts, 26 m. ; tunnels, 12, the longest 1,438 ft. Total, 6,655 ft- Bridges 6, viz, 
cut stone, 4, and iron truss, 2. In Georgetown is a high-service reser^'oir 120 ft. 
in diameter. The work was commenced by Capt. M. C. Meigs, U. S Corps of 
Engineers, and cost 3,500,000. The Aqueduct is the third in rank in the United 
States. 

Kalorama.— The residence of Joel Barlow, 1805-'ll, author, 
poet, politician, and diplomat, who died in Poland, 1812, 
stands on the brow of a beautiful hill, NW. of Washington 
and near the Metropolitan horse railway, Georgetown branch,, 
at the P St. bridge over Rock Creek. 

About 5 mill, walk from the W. end of the P street bridge, 
is a small brick vault, belonging to- the Kalorama estate. 

In the vault are the remains of Judith Baldwin, wife of Joel Barlow, died 1818, 
Henry Baldwin, of Pennsylvania, an associate justice of the Supreme Court of the 
United States, died 1844 j Abraham Baldwin, a Senator from Georgia, died 1807; 
and George Bomford, Colonel of U. S, Ordnance Corps, died 1848. The body of 
Commodore Decatur was also placed here. Mar. 24, 1820, two days after his fatal 
duel In 1846 Decatur's remains were removed to St. Peter's church burial ground, 
Philadelphia 

Meridian Hill.— N. of the city, at the terminus of 16th st. 
W., so named as being on the meridian of the District of Co- 
lumbia, indicated by the meridian stone, established imme- 
diately W. of the National Washington Monument. It was 
formerly the residence of Commodore Porter. A village is 
now growing upon its commanding site. 



Columbian University. — This Institutin, formerly situated 
on Columbian Heights, 5 minute's walk from the N. termmus of 
141 St., W. now occupies a fine site on the s e. cor. of I5tli and 
H Sts., n. w., one of the most central locations in the City The 
Taritor will show visitors through the building. Entrance on 
I5vh St. 



2f?> HOWARD UNIVERSITY. 

Building. — The Building represents, in construction and 
arrangement, the best experience in college architecture. It is 
of classic style, entirely constructed of brick and richly ornamen- 
ted with terra cotta, is 121' on 15th St., 64' on H St , with awing 
40' wide, extending E. 154', the whole 4 stories high atid orna- 
mented by a tower 25'x3o'. The two fronts are broken by grace 
ful window arches At the main entrance, on 15th St., are two 
terra cotta panels ; one representing Literature and Law, and the 
other Natural Scierces. The building was erected i883-'4, Wm. 
Poindexter, Architect, and cost $75,000; iround, $75 oco. The 
University and Law Departments occupy the main building. 

The Preparatory Department is situated on H St. bet. 
i3Lh and 14th Sts., n. w. It is a fine brick building, 5o'x50'„. 
basement and 3 stories, with stone sills and lintels, and a high- 
pitched roof; Wm. M. Poindexter, Architect; cost of building, 
$18,000; ground, $7,000. It has accommodations for 100 pupils 
It has all the modern conveniences and appliances of a school 
buiJding. 

Howard University. — (Open to visitors.) Occupies a con- 
spicuous site N. of the city on the r. of the 7th St. road, and may 
be reached by horse cars from the N. terminus of 7th and 9th Sts. 
horse railways. It was incorporated in 1867, for the education of 
youth, without reference to sex or color. The pupils, however, 
are almost exclusively colored. 



The University Buildings of patent brick, is 3 stories high, covered with a man- 
eard and tower, and contains philosophical, lecture and recitation rooms; libraiy, mu- 
seum and offices. On the NE. is Miner Hall, ladies' dormitories and dining rooms, 
named after Miss Miner, a teacher of colored children in the days of slavery, in the 
District. This lady left ^5,000 invested in real estate in Washington ; since sold 
for 840,000, the interest of which is at present devoted to the normal department oi 
the University. To the N. of the latter is the Normal Building, and N. of the main 
building is Clarie Hall, named after David Clarke, of Hartford, Conn., a gentleman 
of large benevolence and a liberal friend to the University. These halls accommo- 
date 300 students. There are also residences for the professors. The grounds com- 
prise J5 a. Total value of property, $600,000. A short distance S. is the Medica^ 
Department and Freedmens Hospital, rented and managed under the Interior De 
partment 



WATLAND SEMINARY. 



221 




Capitol Spring — To the ISTE. of the Howard University is 
Smith's Spring, the waters of which were conducted in pipes 
to the Capitol in 1830. (See Capitol Grounds.) 

Wayland Seminary.— (Qpen to visitors.) Occupies a com- 
manding position ]^. of the city on Meridian Hill, about 10 min. 
walk K. W. from the K. terminus of the 14th st. horse rail- 
way. 

The Institution was founded in 1865 by the Baptist church for the education of 
colored preachers and teachers. The buildings which is of brick, three stories high, 
with basement, Mansard and lofty tower, was erected in lS73-'4, cost $35,000, 
paid out of voluntary contributions, and will accommodate 200 students. The 



■222 



SOIiDIERS HOME. 



work was done by colored labor. The Seminary is one of the seven schools in the 
South, established and fostered by the American Baptist Home Mission Society. 
it is not yet in full operation in the new building. 




WATLAND SEMINARY. 



Soldiers' Home, {grounds open everyday^ except Sunday^)'iies 
about 3 m. N. of the Capitol. It is one of the most attractive 
drives around the city. It may be readied by pedestrians 
from tlie "toll-gate" on the 7tli-st. road, which point is ac- 
cessible by tlie 7th-st. and Silver Spring horse cars; the latter 
being a continuation of the former, though a separate line. 

The original site consisted of about 200 a., since ex- 
tended to '500 a. by purchases, including Harewood, the seat 
of W. W. Corcoran. The grounds are laid out in meadows, 
lakes, and 7 m. of beautiful drives. The main building, the 
dormitory, is of marble, Norman in design, and measures 
200 ft. front In the rear is a wing of 60 ft., used for a mess 



GRAVE OF MAJOR PETER CHAUi.ES L ENlANT. U23 



room. On the lawn are a flag-stafl* and cannon. On the 
E. of the main buildino- is an additional dormitory, the sta- 
bles, conservatory, and fruit garden. On the W. is the Kiggs 

homestead, now the 
hospital, and near by 
the quarters of the 
governor and officers 
of the institution . S. 
of this is the sur- 
geon's , I'esidence. 
SE .of the main build- 
ino is a beautiful Sen- 
eca stone chapel, fin- 
ished in 1871, and 
.gardener's lodge. In 
the distance S. is the 
new hospital, a com- 
modious brick struc- 
ture, and the build- 
ings close by are used 
by the farmer. The 
Home was first open- 
ed in 1851, and has 
The soldiers ke.p the 
The Home was the 




soldiers' home, main building. 



accommodations for 400 inmates. 

roads in order and perform police duty. 

favorite summer residence of Presidents Pierce, Buchanan, 

and Lincoln. 



raised on a granite pedestal, and facing tlie Capital, stands 
a statue of General Wivjield Scotf^ at the time of his conquest 
of Mexico, by Launt Thompson, 1873, bronze, 10 ft. high, 
cast by R. Woods & Co., Philadelphia, Penna. Cost 818,000. 
Erected in 1874 by the Home. Through General Scott the 
Home was founded. From the site may be had an excellent 
view. 

In 1851 Congress appropriated out of the Treasury Sii8, 791, the balance of §300,- 
000 pillage money levied on the city of Mexico by General VVinlield Scott, to go to 
the founding of a Military Asylum or Soldiers' Home. This fund was increased by 
forfeitures, stoppages, and fines against soldiers, and a tax of 25 now 12 cts. a month 
on each private soldier of the regular army. The Home was for the benefit of the 
regulars and volunteers who served in Mexico, and now is for the privates of the 
regular army, they alone contributing for its support. Pensioners surrender their 
pensions while at the Home. 

Grave of Major Peter Charles L'Enfant, the designer of the 
plan of Wasliington, at Green Hill, the country seat of 
George W. Riggs, on the early manor of Chillam Castle, 
now Prince George's county, Maryland, is about 7 m. NE. 
of Washington. The grave is in the garden, the burial ground 
of the Digges family, the previous proprietors. The latter 
have been removed. The grave is without a marked stone. 



224 ROCK-CREEK CHURCH. 

Major L'Enfant r^as born in France about 1755. He was a 
subordinate oflScer in the French service. In 1778 he was 
made a captain of engineers in the Continental array. His 
gallantry and ability, displayed especially at Savannah, at- 
tracted the attention of Washington. In 1783 lie was pro- 
moted to major. In March, 1791, he was ordered to George- 
town to join Mr. EUicott, the chief surveyor, with instructions 
"to draw^ the site of the federal to"wii and buildings." Not 
sharing in the practical views of the commissioners, who 
desired copies of his plan for circulation, as an inducement 
to i)urchasers of lots, a controversy sprung up. which was 
aggravated by some high-handed measures, chiefly an attempt 
to demolish the residence of Mr. Carroll, one of the commis- 
sioners, which interfered with the execution of his plan on 
the ground. These resulted in his dismissal, after a brief 
service of one year. In 1794 he was employed on Fort Mif- 
flin, below Philadelphia. It is said he was ottered, in 1812, 
a professorship of engineers at West Point. The last days 
of his life were spent around Washington. He found a home 
on the farm of Mr. Digges, and died in the summer of 1825, 
at the advanced age of 70 years. His remains still moulder 
beneath the sod where the kind hand of charity laid them, 

Eock-Oreek Ohurcli and Gemetery.— {Church services^ Epis- 
copal, every Sahbath at 11 a. w., and Cemetery open every day^ 
except Sunday.) — The cemetery lies contiguous to the Sol- 
diers' Home on the jS"., and is easy of access from the horse 
cars on the 7th-st. road. It comprises about one-half of the 
glebe, 100 a., the gift of John Bradford, about 1719. The 
church, which lies on the W., properly St. Paul's Episcopal 
Church, Rock-creek Parish, was erected in 1719, rebuilt in 
1775, and remodeled in 1868. The bricks were imported from 
England. The main walls are the same as erected in 1719. 
The bible used is an Oxford edition of 1727. Immediately 
around the church are a number of old graves, marked by 
rude stones, and over them stands a yenerable oak, the out- 
;preading branches of whicli cover an area of 126 ft. in diam- 
eter. The oldest monuments are E. of the church, of the 
Gramphin family, 1775. In this cemetery is the grave of Pe- 
ter Force, with a fine moniunent. 

National Military Cemetery, {open from sunrise to sunset,) 
lies N. of and adjoins the Soldiers' Home, and E. of Rock- 
Creek Cemetery. It was established in 1861, and contains 
5,424 interments : known 5145, unlmowai 279, and Confeder- 
ates 271. There are a fine keeper's lodge and conservatory. 
Adjoining, on the N., is the Cemetery of the Soldiers' Home. 



BLAJJENSBURG. 225 

Glenwood Cemetery, {open everyday except Sunday,) 1^ 
m. N, of the Capitol, is situated at the head of Lincoln av., 
reached from the Columbia st.-raihuay at N. Capitol St., dis- 
tance 1 m. It was incorporated in 1854, and contains 90 a. 
The grounds are beautifully laid out in drives and walks. 
The public vault is a fine structure. Amos Kendall, 
Postmaster General lS35-'40 is buried here. Outside the 
gateway are Prospect Hill Cemetery, 17 a., incorporated in 
1860, St. Mcm/s (Roman Catholic) Burying Ground, 3 a. 

Bladensburg, a post-village of Prince George's co., Md., 
lies 6 m. N. E. of Washington, on the Baltimore railroad 
and turnpike. It was founded about 1750, and named 
after Martin Blanden,one of the Lords' Commissioners of 
I'rade and Plantations. Before the Revolution it was a 
place of some commercial and agricultural importance. 
In those days the Anacostia, upon which it stands, ad- 
mitted of navigation to the town. Over the stream was 
the bridge, and W. the field of the disastrous battle of Au- 
gust 24, 1814, which o)-)ened Washington to the enemy, 
and gave the name of Bladensburg a place in history. On 
the open ground was the position bravely defended by 
Commodore Barney and his gallant soldiers and marines. 

About I m. S. E. of the village, on the turnpike, was the notorious "duelling 
ground." The District line runs through the valley, thus enabling parties 
from the District and Virginia to pass into Maryland. The most painful of 
all duels fought here was that between Commodores Decatur, the hero of the 
Algerine war, and Barron, in 1820, in which the former was mortally wounded. 
The spot was the scene of many other duels, but not of late years. The dud 
between Henry Clay and John Randolph of Roanoke, in 1826, took place on 
the Virginia shore of the Potomac river, near Washington. 

Near Bladensburg, a short distance from the turnpike, stood the family man- 
sion of George Calvert, the lineal descendant of the Baron of Baltimore. 

Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb and 
National Deaf- Mute College, {open every day except Sun- 
day,) entrance at N. end of 7th st. E., also W. end M st. 
N. : 10 minutes from Columbia horse R. R. The grounds, 
known as " Kendall Green," were previously the home 
of Amos Kendall, Postmaster General of the United States 
1835-40. The first portion occupied was but a few acres 
and a small building, presented by Mr. Kendall. Sub- 
sequently, 25 acres were purchased, and in 1872 the entire 
estate of 100 acres. The grounds and buildings were 
vested in the United States as trustee. 

The institution, incorporated in 1857, ^^^ since been sustained by Congress 
as the institution where Government beneficiaries, viz., deaf-mute children of 
the District of Columbia, and of the army and navy, should receive free edu- 
cation. A collegiate department was organized in 1864 by Congress, and i& 
named the National Deaf-Mute College. Both are open to both sexes. 



'226 



DEAF AND DUMIl ASVLUM. 




THE COLUMJ 



K UHAH A.NU DUMB. 



The main central buildini^, dedicated in 1871, was tiie gift 
of the Government. It is a fine specimen of the pointed 
Gothic architecture of tlie 14th centm-y. it is '210 by 7G ft., 
and is faced on all sides with Connecticut brown-stone, in- 
terspersed with courses of white Ohio sandstone, and cov- 
ered with roofs of red and blue slate, laid in patterns and 
courses. 

The main entrance is under a recessed porch, formed by 
three pointed arches of alternate brown and white sandstone 
blocks, supported by double sets of dwarf columns of lil.ii:hly 
polished Scotch granite, with brown-stone bases an<l (Mirvcd 
white sandstone capitals. Tliis porch is paved witli white 
and black marble tiles, and surmounted by an angular pedi- 
ment containing a carved half-relief figure of the Ameri- 
can eagle, with the stars and stripes on the shield over its 
breast. 

From this porch leads a small vestibule at either end into 
the main hall, or chapel, a room 50 ft. square and 38 ft. high, 
with a paneled ceiling of light and dark colored wood, witli 
massive brackets, cornice, and panel mouldings, the walls be- 
ing frescoed in delicate tints in plain panels. The walls, to 
about 8 ft. from the floor, are protected by a paneled wain- 
scot, painted in strong party colors, with the pidpit, platform, 
and front, and folding-doors to match. The room is lighted 
by ten large stained-glass windows. 

Adjoining on the E., and separated from the chapel by 
eight sliding doors 15 ft. high and 27 ft. wide, is the lecture 
room. Over the sliding; doors Is a solid white sandstone arch 



MOUNT OLIVET CEMETERY. ^27 

of 27 ft. span, springing- from light stone columns with carved 
capitals. The lectifl-e room is about 30 by 40 ft. in size, with 
a raised floor. 

The remainder of the E. wing on this floor is occupied by 
a large dining-hall, or refectory, for the pupils of the primary 
department, with its corridors and stairs ; and with Idtchens, 
bakery, and store-rooms in the basement below, and large 
dormitories in the attic above. 

The W. wing contains a large dining-hall for the students 
of the college, with its pantries and store-rooms. In the hall 
of this wing a stairway affords access to the tower. In the 
basement under this wing is an extensive laundry, steam- 
drying rooms, and store-rooms, while the basement under 
the chapel contains the fuel and boiler rooms. 

In the chapel is a fine plaster cast of Abbe de I'Epee, taken 
from his tomb in the old church of Saint Roch, Paris ; also 
one of Abbe Sicard. The former, about the year 1760, de- 
veloped and applied the system of communication for deaf 
mutes by means of natural signs. Abbe Sicard subsequently 
perfected the system. Tliere is also a portrait of the Rev. 
Thomas H. Gallaudet, formerly principal of the American 
Asylum at Hartford, Connecticut. That gentleman was sent 
abroad to acquire the system of instruction by natural signs. 
lie chose the Frencli system, now in use by the Institution 
and College, and also generally throughout the United States. 
The E. building is occupied by the primary department, 
and contains several school rooms, chapel, library, reception 
parlor, private rooms of instructors, and dormitory for boys, 
and another in a remote part of the building for girls. The 
W. building is used by the College. In the rear and W. of 
the main central building is the finished wing of a dormitory 
for College students. The value of the property is $350,000. 

Mount Olivet Cemetery {open every day) lies on the 1. of 
the Columbia turnpike, ^ m. ^. of the E. terminus of the 
Columbia horse railway. It comprises 70 a. It was incor- 
porated in 1862, in the names of the parish priests of the 
four Roman Catholic churches of Washington. The grounds 
are well laid out, and shaded with oak and evergreens. 
Father Matthews, one of the earliest priests who arrived in 
tlie city after its occupation by the Government, is buried 
here, also Lieut. Col. Garesche, A. A. G. to General Rose- 
cranz, killed at Murfreesboro, 1862 ; Mrs. Surratt, executed 
for complicity in the assassination of President Lincoln ; and 
Wirz, the keeper of the Andersonville prison pen for na- 
tional soldiers during the rebellion, 1861-'65, and executed 
in Washington at its close^ The entrance to the cemetery 



228 GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE. 

is at the SE. corner on the Columbia turnpike, where there 
is a neat superintendent's residence. 

G-raceland Cemetery {open from sunrise to sunset) is situated 
immediately outside the E. limits of the city, at tiie terminus 
of the Columbia Jiorse railway. Tlie cemetery was opened 
in 1872, and comj)rises about 40 a. 

Eeform School of tlie District of Columbia occupies a com- 
manding site on the S. side of the Washington and Baltimore 
turnpike, 2 m. from the E. terminus of the Columbia horse 
railway. The school, wliich is for boys only, was established 
hj Congress in 1866, and is under the supervision of tlie 
Department of Justice. It was first located on the Govern- 
ment farm, on the Aqueduct road, 4 m. above Georgetown, 
but owing to the unheal thiness of that section was, in 1871, 
removed to its present situation. The farm comprises 150 a. 
The buildings stand on Lincoln's Hill, so-called from the 
fort of that name in the defenses of Washington during the 
rebellion, and which crowned the hill. They are 230 ft. 
above the Anacostia, which runs in the rear, and command 
a view of four railroads, portions of Washington, the National 
Insane Asylum, the Soldiers' Home, Bladensburg, the Mary- 
land State Agricultural School, and a vast sweep of country 
into Maryland and Virginia. 

The main building is occupied by the superintendent, 
boys' dining room, chapel, library, and reflecting room. The 
reception room for strangers is on the 1. of the main entrance. 
On either side of the main building are two detached wings, 
occupied by the assistants, and as school and dormitories. 
The boys divide their time in the school and shops. The 
boys are kept till reformed or their majority. The buildings 
and grounds will be greatly improved. 

Government Hospital for the Insane. — ( Visiting days, Wednesdays, 
from 2 ^0 H p. m., and friends of patients every day hut Sunday.) 
This institution, founded in 1855, occupies a conspicuous 
site at the confluence of the Potomac and the Anacostia 
Rivers ; and commands an extensive view of those 
streams, and the capitol on the opposite bank. It is acces- 
sible by the Pennsylvania Av. street cars to the Navy 
Yard, thence by the Anacostia and Potomac Street Rail- 
way, across the fine iron bridge over the Anacostia, 
through Uniontown to the foot of the hill, within one mile. 

The Building was designed by Walter, architect of the Capitol, after plans 
suggested by Dr. C. H. Nicholls, first Superintendent, is of brick, in the Colle- 
giate Gothic style, consists of an imposing centre of four stories, with connecting 
ranges, and receding wings, three and four stories, with bold buttresses, iron 



ALEXANDRIA. 



229 



window Qoods, and an embattled parapet; is 750 ft long and 200 ft. deep in 
the centre, and contains 550 single rooms. The West wing is for vtale, and 
East for female patients. The centre contains the residence of the Superin- 
tendent and staff officers, dispensary, chapel, rooms for billiards, and other 
games of amusement. The basement contains the kitchens, store rooms, etc. 
The large detached building S, erected under the supervision of Dr. W. W. 
Godding, is for special classes of patients. There are also detached btdldings 
for the colored inmates, gas works, machine shops, barn and stables. There 
are aggregate accommodations for over 900 patients, averaging one-fourth 
females. 

The home tract of 185 acres, part of an original grant of land called St. Eliz- 
abeth which name it still retains, is surrounded by a brick wall 9 ft. high, and 
tastefully laid out. The entire estate comprises 419 a. This is successtliUy cul- 
tivated for the benefit of the institution. The asylum is controlled by an Ad' 
7ninistrative Board and a superintending physician. It is for the tise of the 
army and navy, and District of Columbia, embracing indigent and paying pa- 
tients, and is supported by the National Government at an annual expenditure 
of about |30O,ooo,and ranks with the finest institutions of the kind in the world. 





GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE. 

Alexandria. — This city, originally called Bellhaveii, stands 
in Vil-ginia, on the r. bank of the Potomac river, at tlie con- 
fluence of that stream and Hunting Creek, 7 m. S. of Wash- 
4iigton. The boats of the Washington and Alexandria ferry, 
from the foot of 7th street W.,Veached bj^ liorse cars^ run 
every hour from 6 a. m. to 7 p. m., on Sunday from 9 a. m. 
Single fare 15 cts., round trip 25 cts. The steam cars leave 
at the same intervals from 6 a. m. to 8 p. m. from the depot 
on 6th St., S. of Pennsylvania av. Tlie city is picturesquely 
situated on the side of a range of low hills, and is surrounded 
by a fertile and well-cultivated country. The town was 
founded in 1748. In 1755 five colonial governors met liere in 
connection with Braddock's expedition, which started here. 
In the early colonial days it was tiie rival of Baltimore in 
commerce, but superior advantages and other facilities at- 
tractive of trade soon advanced the metropolis of Maryland 



230 ALEXANDRIA. 

beyond the successful rivalry of the quaint Virginia town on 

thp Potomac. 

During the Revolution 1776-83, it was a place of much siraie£ic importance^ 
During the War of j8i2 (Aug. 28, 1814), Fort Washington below having beerf 
abandoned, the town fell into the hands of the British and was held five days. 
The city and county was in the first survey of the Federal territory, but was 
retroceded to Virginia in 1846. About i m. S. E. of the city on the point is 
the i^/;^ of the /«/;/«/ c-^r«^r stone of the Federal territory (District of Co- 
lumbia) planted in 1791. The Alexandria Canal connects the city with 
Georgetown The principal exports are tobacco, corn and coal. It has rail' 
road connection with the North and South. The population is 13,658. 



VIEW OF ALEXANDRIA FROM THE RIVER- 

In the court of the Mansion House, on Fairfax St., is an old 
structure known as Washington's Headquarters^ having been 
occupied, it is said, by the General when in Alexandria. At 
the intersection of Washington and Cameron sts. is Christ 
Episcopal Churchy commenced in 1765 and finished in 1773, 
built of bricks imported from England. The interior has 
been renovated of late years; though some of the wood-work 
about the chancel is old. The principal interest is associated 
with the fact that Washington was a member of the vestry of 
this church. His pew was^No. 59, on the 1. of the 1. aisle. A 
little back is pew No. 46, used by Kobert E. Lee, General of 
the Confederate forces, who came here from Arlington to 
woi-ship. Marble tablets on the 1. and r. of the chancel have 
been placed in the walls to their memory. In the church- 
yard the oldest tombstone is 1771. The city hall, market- 
house, and masonic hall occupy a fine building. Near the 
city is a National Cemetery, which contains the remains of 
3,635 soldiers of the rebellion. 

A branch of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal connects the 
city with Georgetown. The river in front is 1 m. wide. The 
shipping of the place amounts to about 182 vessels; sail, 
steam, and unrigged, 8,210 tons. The principal exports are 
tobacco, corn, and coal. 



MOCTNT VERNON. 



231 



Motmt Yemon, steamer daily^ except Sunday, at 10 a. w., 
fj-om the foot of 7th st. W., reached 
by horse-cars, fare $1.00 round trip, 
to include admission to the grounds. 
Distance, 15 m. Return 4 p. m. 

Leaving the wharf, the boat runs 
close to the shore, and along- the 
.Vrsenal grounds, at the foot of 
ga. which the Anacostia enters the Po- 
tomac. The village on the i". is 
Uniontown, and on the hill is the 
L ^ ^^^§^^R*^S1 ^'"itional Insane Asvlura. On the 
F^ ' "^^P^^^^f- 1- is the Xaw Yard. On the S. 
point of the river is Giesboro'. Dur- 
ing the rebellion a large number of 
cavalrv horses were kept here foi- 
the supply of the army. During a 
^^^^ stampede on one occasion over 1000 
-- were drowned in the river. The 
steamer now directs her coin-se to- 
wards Alexandria. G m. below. Af- 
ter leaving Alexandria, the steamer 
passes Jones's point on the r. A 
lighthouse stands on the point at 
the location of the initial stone of the 
boundaries of the District, planted 
in 1791. The lines extend XE. and NW. Hiniting creek 
here enters the Potomac. The steamer next touches at 
Foi-t Foote, an earthwork on the Marj^land shore. Broad 




^ V- '- 



WiiAVE nK WACJI 




IRT FdoIK. Oce p. 2-37. 



232 MOLNT VERNON. 

creek enters below. The next kiudinii- is at Fort WasTiing- 
t<>Ji. also ou the Maryland side. It is an old-style sea-coai>t 
defense, monnting guns in casemate and barbette, and intei"- 
esting". {See page ~ -i^.) 

The Mount Vernon Uinding may be seen in the distance ou 
the Virginia side : also glimpses of the mansion on the hill. 
The path leads directly^o the tomb, a brick vault, with iron 
gratings, showing a marble sarcophagus containing the re- 
mains of the immortal Washington, died 1799. The other 
contains the remains of ''Martha, the consort of Washing- 
ton," died ISOl. 

The of-<-/:sA- on the right is to Bushrod Washington, died 1829, Associate Jus- 
tice ot the Supreme Court of the United States, nephew of George Washington, 
and to whom Mt. Vernon was bequeathed. That on the left is "to John Augus- 
tine W.ishington, died 1832, to whom Mt. Vernon was bequeatiied by Judge 

Washington. 

The path to the right leads to the mansion. The ruins of 
the old vault will be seen on the way. 

The ?nansion fronts X. TV. It is of wood. 96 feet long and 
two stories high. The centre was erected by Lawrence, 
brother to the" General, and the wings were added by the 
General, and named after Admiral Vernon, of the British 
Navy, under whom Lawrence "Washington served. 

T':^ Mjw.t rfrr.^^r. L<tJ:fs' Ass<.K-i.it:on o/ thi UnicH, incorporated 1856, 
purchased the mansion and contiguous grounds, about 6 acres, thus rescuing 
both from neglect and decay, and have restored and preser\'ed them as nearly as 
practicable as in the daj-s of their great proprietor. 

Within the building the rooms have been appropriately 
fitted up, and relics or other remembrances of Washington 
placed m them. Among these on the tirst floor are a tiress 
sw*.>rd. spy-glass, tripod, holsters, and camp equipage, and 
other interesting relics comiected with his person : also, 
painting. Washington before Yorktown, by Rembrandt 
Peale, giving orders to commence the entrenchments ; the 
Key to the French Bastile, destroyed 1TS9. presented by La- 
fayette, and many other objects of interest. 

On the second Jioor the little room in which Washingte^n 
died Dec. 14. 1799, at the south end of the building, is shown. 
The simple bed is the same from which the soul of Washing- 
ton took its flight to the eternal world. The other rooms 
assigned to theStates are also objects of absorbing interest, 
■ The cieir from the cupola is very flue. 

On the right facing the lawn are the Servants' Hall and Spinning and Weav- 
ing Rooms. On the same side beyond are the gardens and conservatories as 
Washington lei't them, the latter reconstructed. On the lel"t of the mansion are 
the family Kitchen, Butler's House, Smoke House, and Laundrj'. The old 
stables and ruins of the ser^-ants' quaners are near by. Several ash and a mag- 
nolia planted by Washington still thrive. 



MOLJST VKKNON 



233 




N (towards the Aloxarulria road). 



234 



DEFENSES OF WASHINGTON. 




!/, I 

jbiiijiiiiif' 
Ifiiftil'iliipi '1 



ifi 




Defenses of Washington. 
The inauguration of actual 
hostilities at Fort Sumter, 
April 12-13, 1861, warned the 
National Government of the 
necessity of preparations for 
defense. One of the first 
thoughts was the security of 
the Nation's Capital. 

On the night of May 23, 1861, the 
Hrmy, in three cohimns, crossed the 
Poto7nac, one at Georgetown, one by 
the Long Bridge, and one by water to 
Alexandria. Before daylight, Ft. Cor- 
coran, a tete de pont opposite George- 
town, was commenced, and with its 
auxiliary works, was preliminary to the 
line of impregnable fortifications which 
ultimately completely encircled the 
Capital, and constituted the Defenses 
of Washington. These were in four 
groups: I. The forts s out hof the Po- 
tomac, from Alexandria to George- 
town. 2. The forts at the Chain 
Bridge. 3. The forts north of the Po- 
tojnac. 4. The forts south of the An- 
acostia {see map of the District of 
Columbia) with a perimeter of 37 m. 
In April, 1865, the Defenses of Wash- 
ington consisted of 68 inclosed forts 
and batteries, and emplacements for 
1 1 20 guns, 807 of which, and 98 mor- 
tars, were mounted ; also 93 unarmed 
batteries for field guns, having 401 
emplacements ; 20 miles of rifle 
trenches, 3 block houses, and 32 miles 
of military roads. The minor roads 
were obstructed by abattis and stock- 
ades. Th.^ fords of the Potomac were 
picketed with cavalry. The garrison 
consisted of about 25,000 men, with a 
provost guard of 2,000 men in the 
city, and an artillery force of 17 bat- 
teries and 2,000 men at Camp Barry. 
On July II, 1864, General Early, with 
20,000 men, made an attack on Fort 
Stevens, on the 7th Street Road, but 
was driven back by the guns of Forts 
Stevens, Slocum, and De Russy. The 
ruins of the now dismantled Defenses 
of Washington may be seen on many 
of the eminences near the city. They 
saved the Capital after the disastrous 
action at Bull Run, when the enemy 
appeared in sight on Munson's Hill, 
and from attack after the failure of 
McClellan on the Peninsula and th» 
rt'treat of Pope in 1862. 



SECTION yi. 

HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 



I^A^^^^HE fii'st attempt to explore the Chesapeake and 
^^^^—'^^^ its tiibntaries was made in 1608, by Captahi John 
Smith, from the Jamestown settlement. He left an 
interesting narrative of his discoveries. He spealis 
Vtofl^^ of the '^Patawomeke " as 6 or 7 m. in breadth, and 
^^^ P" navigable 140 m. The Indian name was Cohongu- 
roton, or river of swans. The shores of the great bay and 
river had a large aboriginal population, not less than forty 
tribes, members of the numerous and warlike Algonquin 
family, who lived by fishing, the cultivation of maize, and 
warring upon their neighbors. The point of tlie tongue of 
land now occupied by the Arsenal was the seat of the council 
fire. The Manahoaclis occupied the lands between the rivers, 
but about 1669, after a severe war with the Powhatans, were 
overcome, and fled to the West, where they joined the Tus- 
caroras. 

In 1634. Henry Fleet, with a party of Calvert's settlei^s, vis- 
ited the falls of the Potomac. In 1663, a tract of land 400 a., 
called Room, (Rome,) was laid out for Francis Pope, gentle- 
man, on the east side of the Anacostian river, and to the 
mouth of the Tiber. Another tract, of 500 a., for Captain 
Robert Troop, called Scotland Yard, was laid out adjoining 
on the same date. The lands of the western portion of the 
city, called ''The Widow's Mite," 600 a., were laid out in 
1681 for William Langworth. All were in Charles county, 
province of Maryland. 

In ITOO-'Ol, Daniel Carroll owned the lands on the Ana- 
costia, Notley Young, in the forks of the river and to the 
northward, and David Burns on the west, towards George- 
town. On the bank of the river, east of tlie Observatory, 
was a settlement called Hamburg, previously Funkstown. 
On tlie Anacostia, a short distance above the Arsenal, was 
Can-ollsburg. The arable lands were tilled, and produced 
wheat, tobacco, and maize. 

On April 30, 1783, nineteen days after the proclamatioa of 

(235) 



236 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

a cessation of hostilities between tlie late British Colonies in 
N'orth America and the mother country, the subject of a per- 
manent capital for the general government of the United 
States of America was incidentally alluded to in Congress. 
In March, 1783, the legislature of New York offered to cede 
the town of Kingston as a place of permanent meeting. 
Shortly after, Maryland tendered Annapolis for the same 
purpose; also $1801,000 if selected. 

A proposition by a prominent gentleman was the location 
of the capital, for a term of thirteen years, at some of the 
growing western settlements, such as Detroit, Louisville, 
Kaskaskia, St. Vincent's, and Sandusl^y; stating that "an 
amazing value would be added to that important territory ; " 
that it would '"accelerate the rapidity of its settlement and 
population," and at about twelve cents an acre would extin- 
guish the national debt ; that Congress should assume plen- 
ary jurisdiction over a compass of twenty miles square ; sliould 
form a government "on the most perfect plan of modern re- 
tinement ; " in place of certificates, should award the lands in 
the vicinity ''to those brave officers and men who served in 
the late glorious war." These, Spartan-like, it was expected, 
would form "an impregnable bulwark against the natives," 
or any other dangers. Williamsburg, the old capital of Vir- 
ginia, was offered at the same time. 

On October G, 1783, Congress voted upon the selection of 
a State, as they existed at that time, beginning with New 
Hampshire, and proceeding in order southward. New Jersey 
and Maryland received the highest number of votes, but no 
choice was made. Tlie next day, on a resolution by Eldridge 
Oerry, the location of the "Federal City "was voted on or, 
near the falls of the Delaware, near Trenton, and a commit-^ 
tee of five was appointed to examine the locality and report. 
On October 21 following, the erection of buildings was author- 
ized at or near the lower falls of the Potomac or Georgeto\vn, 
iind a committee wasappohited to examine and report on that 
site. Two localities were now provided for, and meanwhile 
Congress was to meet alternatel5''at Trenton and Annapolis. 

Tlie inconvenience of two capitals was soon demonstrated. 
The Delaware committee reported favorably, and that for the 
Potomac unfavorably on that location, though they thought 
better of a site above Georgetown, or 1^ m. below, at Funks- 
town. On December 20, 1784, it wsls decided inexpedient to 
erect buildings at more than one place. On December 23 
tiu-ee commissioners were appointed to lay out a district of 
not less tlian two nor more than 3 m. square, on either side 
of the Delaware, within 8 m. above oi- below the falls. 

Commissioners. — 1791-'94, Thomas Joluison, Md.; 1791-'9'^ 



HISTORV OF WASHINGTON. 237 

Daniel Carroll, Md. ; 1791-94, David Stuart, Va. ; 1794-1800, 
Gnstavus Scott, Md. ; 1794-1802, William Tliornton, Penn. ; 
1795-1802, Alexander White, Md. : 1800, William Cranch, 
Md. ; 1800-1802, Tristram Dalton, Md. 

The Constitution of the United States, 1787, gave Congress 
the power ''•to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases what- 
soever over such district, not exceeding 10 m. square, as may, 
by cession of particular States and the acceptance of Con- 
gress, become the seat of the Government of tlie United 
States." * * * (Art. I, Sec. 8.) 

The first session of Congress of the United States of Amer- 
ica, assembled under the Constitution, was called upon to 
enter into this question, confronted by a stronger evidence of 
sectional spirit than had hitherto been exhibited. Resolutions 
from the legislatures of States, besides numerous petitions 
and memorials, were presented, urging certain localities, and 
frequently oflering great inducements. Districts of 10 m. 
square, with the right to exercise exclusive jurisdiction, were 
offered to Congress for the seat of Government by acts of the 
General Assemblies of Maryland in December, 1788, Penn- 
sylvania in September, 1789, and Virginia in December, 1789. 
As an additional inducement, Virginia offered $120,000, and 
Maryland $72,000. Pennsjdvania, in her grant, excepted 
Pliiladelphia, the district of Southwarlc, and part of the 
Northern Liberties. Petitions were also received from the 
inhabitants of Trenton, in New Jersey ; Lancaster, Wright's 
Ferry, York, Carlisle, Harrisburg, Eeading, and German- 
town, in Pennsylvania, and Baltimore and Georgetown, in 
Maryland. All expressed their willingness to come under the 
aegis of Congress and the Constitution, and pictured in glow- 
ing colors the advantages of climate and scenery, and conve- 
niences of access whicli their respective localities possessed. 
The newspapers of the day fi'equently took a humorous view 
of this patriotic competition, and in prose and verse gave vent 
to considerable, good-natured sentiment. 

In the second session the Capital question was again agi- 
tated, and Baltimore, Wilmington, the Delaware, German- 
town, between the Potomac and the Susquehanna, were all 
urged ; but the act establishing the temporary Seat of Govern- 
ment at Philadelphia, from the first Monday in December, 
1790, and the permanent on the river Potomac, between the 
mouths of the Eastern Branch (Anacostia) and Conogo- 
cheague, a tributary of the upper Potomac, to be ready for 
the sessions of Congress by the first Monday in December, 
1800, was finally passed, and approved by Washington July 
16, 1790. In the Senate it received 14 yeas and 12 nays, and 
in the House 32 yeas and 29 nays. The immediate settle- 



238 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

ment was effected as a compromise with the advocates of a 
riscal measm-e known as the assumption of the State debts. 
The majority of the votes of the Middle States going with 
the South, gave the majority for the Potomac. 

The Legislature of Virginia, in December, 1790, appropri- 
ated the $120,000 previously offered, payable in three annual 
installments. In December, 1791, the Legislature of Mary- 
land gave an order for the payment of the $72,000 donated 
by that State. The December before, the same Legislature 
passed an act for providing for the condemnation of land, if 
necessary, for the public buildings. On January 22, 1701, 
the first commissioners, three in number, were appointed to 
superintend the affairs of the city. On January 24 the Presi- 
dent issued a proclamation directing the commissioners to lay 
down the four 'experimental lines of boundary, as follows : 

First, by running a line from the court-house of Alexan- 
dria, in Virginia, due SW. J m., and thence a due SE. course 
till it struck Hunting Creek. This was to be the initial 
point, from which the first line was to run due NW. 10 m. ; 
the second into Maryland due NE. 10 m. ; the third due SE. 
10 m. ; and the fourth due SVV. 10 m. to the beginning, on 
Hunting Creek. These were approved by Congress. The 
original act required the location of the District above the 
mouth of the Eastern Branch or Anacostia i-iver. To con- 
form the law to the experimental lines, an amendatory act, 
approved March 3, 1791, repealed the conflicting portion of 
the act of July 16, 1790, but required the public buildings to 
be erected on the Maryland side of the Potomac. After the 
completion of the necessary legislation on the subject. Presi- 
dent Washington set out on a visit to the Potomac. He 
arrived March 28, 1791, and put up at Suter's tavern, a one- 
story frame structure, the favorite resort of travelers arriving 
at Georgetown. On March 29, in company with tlie three 
commissioners and the surveyors, Andrew Ellicott and Major 
Peter Charles L'Enfant, he rode over the ground. The same 
night a meeting was held for the purpose of effecting a re- 
conciliation with the property owners. There were some 
who desired to derive all the advantages offered by the i)ro- 
posed city without making a reasonable concession to its 
success. The counsel of Washington had its efiect. The 
general terms agreed upon were signed by nineteen of the 
original proprietors. The President issuetl a proclamation, 
dated March 30, 1791, at Georgetown, which defined the lines 
of the Federal territory accepted by Congress, and ordered 
the commissioners to proceed forthwith to have the lines 
permanently marked. 

The President now left for a brief visit to his home at 



HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 



239 



Mount Vernon ; thence he proceeded to Richmond, Va., to 
consult with Gov. Beverly Randolph respecting the payment of 
the $120,000 appropriated by the Commonwealth of Virginia 
towards the buUding of the Capital. On April 13 he wrote, 
informing the commissioners that the Governor was willing 
to advance the money at earlier periods than agreed upon. 
On April 12 the commissioners held their first regular meet- 
ing at Georgetown. On April 15 the initial or corner-stone 
of the lines of the Federal territory was formally planted in 
the presence of the three commissioners, Andrew EUicott, 
tlie surveyor, and the Masons and many citizens of Alexan- 
dria. James Muir, the pastor of that Episcopal parish, deliv- 
ered a sermon. On June 29 a final settlement was eflected, 
by which the lands ceded to the Government were conveyed 
in trust to Thomas Beall, of George, and John M. Gantt, of 
Maryland, or their heu'S, for the United States. The streets, 
squares, parcels, and lots were to be laid out, and conveyed 
by the trustees to the United States ; the residue of tlie land 
was to be divided equally. For their share the United States 
were to pay !fe25, or $66 66f an a. The streets and squares 
went to the Government free. There were other stipulations 
respecting sales of lands and payment of indebtedness to the 
proprietors. They were also permitted to occupy the lands 
till required for public use. Owing to a disagreement, the 
streets and reservations were never conveyed to the commis- 
sioners. The law ofiicer of the Government and the Supreme 
Com't of the United States, however, have decided that the 
United States have absolute control over them notwithstand- 
ing. An act of Maryland, Dec. 19, 1791, ratified the cession 
of its portion of the Federal territory, and designated certain 
powers and duties of the commissioners, who were also au- 
thorized to take possession, in the same proportion as agreed 
with the others, of lots in Hamburg and CarroUsburg. The 
inhabitants of Georgetown, who so requested, were to be in- 
cluded, provided tliey conformed to the general terms of 
the agreement, which they declined. 

The laying out of the city according to the plans prepared 
by L'Enfant, which were approved by Washington in Aug., 
1791, was carried out under the direction of Andrew Ellicott, 
a native of Bucks county, Penn., a gentleman of fine attain- 
ments, and who had executed a number of important sur- 
veys. He was born m 1754, and died at West Point in 1820. 

The first step was the establishment of the "meridian 
line" through the site of the Capitol, and the E. and W. in- 
tersecting line, which were to form the basis of the execution 
of the entire plan. At a meeting of the commissioners on 
Sept. 8, 1791, certain regulations were prescribed In regard 



240 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

to the erection of private buildings, and the present names of 
the city and District and designation of the streets were 
adopted. The first public sale of lots, of which the Govern- 
ment had 10,136, took place at Georgetown on Oct. 17, 1791. 
A large number of purchasers were present from all parts of 
the country, and the piices paid ranged from $26 66 to $306 50, 
During the summer and autumn of 1791 the commissioners 
also made preparations for the commencement of work early 
in the following spring. Contracts for building material and 
food were awarded, and a freestone quarry on Higgington's 
island, 40 m. below the city, was pm-chased. 

The President's House was the first of the public buildings 
commenced. An historical sketch of each of the public 
buildings will be found, with their description, in the HAND- 
BOOK. 

The building of the city, as might be expected, attracted a 
number of that class of persons who, though poor in means, 
were still rich in schemes. Among the earliest was one 
Samuel Blodgett, who appeared on the scene as an applicant for 
permission to build an entire street, which was granted. Alter 
considerable planning and negotiatmg, the enterprise was 
abandoned, the commissioners having no funds to spare, and 
Blodgett's being all in anticipation. Undaunted, however, 
the same person undertook the erection of a great hotel, the 
funds for which were to be raised by lottery, the hotel being 
the first prize. The building was partly erected, and was 
drawn by a person without means to complete it. It re- 
mained unfinished till purchased, years- after, by the Govern- 
ment for the Post and Patent Offices. 

In 1793, the commissioners entered into an agreement 
with Robert Morris and James Greenleaf for the sale of 6,000 
lots, at $80 a lot, payable in seven annual installments, with- 
out interest, they obliging themselves to erect, in 1794, and 
annually for six years, twenty brick houses, two stories high. 
The above two and John Nicholson bound themselves to ful- 
fill the contract. The parties failed to comply with any por- 
tion of the contract, which led to the serious embarrassment 
of the commissioners. 

One of the great obstacles in the way of the commission- 
ers in the beginning was the scarcity of skilled workmen. 
Agents were s6nt to the northern cities, and some importa- 
tions were made from abroad. The slaves from the adjacent 
plantations were almost exclusively employed as laborers. 

In 1796, Congress authorized the commissioners, under 
the direction of the President, to borrow $300,000, and, at 
the same time, assumed a supervision of the afiairs of the 
city, requiring the commissioners to report their operations 



HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 241 

semi-annually to the Secretary of the Treasury. Meeting 
with no success in negotiating their loan in Holland, whence 
the first application of tlie commissioners was made, the As- 
sembly of Maryland came to their rescue by granting them 
a loan of $100,000. 

The election of John Adams at first excited some solicitude 
on the part of the friends of the Federal city, in considera- 
tion of the opposition to the selection of the Potomac site 
shown by the New England States in the discussion and vote 
in Congress in 1790. The President, however, gave assur- 
ance of a determination to carry out the views of liis prede- 
cessor. 

In 1799, after a long discussion. Congress voted another 
$100,000 to the commissioners, which amount was also ad- 
vanced by the State of Maryland. The next year $50,000 
was obtained from the same source, on the personal security 
of the commissioners. 

In February, 1800, they executed the papers necessary to 
the security of all the loans or advances to the city, both 
from the State of Maryland and the National Government, 
amounting to $300,000, exclusive of the last loan of $50,000. 
For that purpose they pledged all the property in the city 
sold or contracted for before that time, and upon which pay- 
ments had not been made. The land acquired or purchased 
for the United States and 3^et unsold, exclusive of lots for- 
feited for non-payment of purchase money and then liable to 
be sold, amounted to 4,682 lots and 2,043 ft. frontage on 
navigable water, valued at $884,750. The debt was $144,125, 
and contracted for on the credit of the above funds of $360,- 
881. The N. wing of the Capitol, the President's House, 
and War and Treasiu-y Offices, the fiivst commenced in 1797, 
were ready for occupation. A number of dwellings had 
been erected by private parties in the vicinity of the Capitol, 
President's House, and Greenleaf's Point. Pennsylvania 
av., the thoroughfare from the Capitol to the President's 
House, was ditched. Other avenues and streets connecting 
the widely-scattered parts of the city were also opened. The 
reservations around tlie Capitol and President's House were 
planted. A turnpike was also opened to Baltimore. Suita- 
ble provisions having been made by act of Congress dated 
April 24, 1800, the archives of the Government were con- 
veyed to Washington. The Executive and offices were 
transferred at the same time. On November 21 Congress 
commenced its sessions in the N. wing of the Capitol. Con- 
gress assumed jurisdiction over the District of Columbia in 
1801, and declared that the laws of Virginia and Maryland 



242 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

should continue respectively in force in the portions of the 
District ceded by those States. 

In 1802 the Board of Commissioners was abolished and 
succeeded by a superintendent, Thomas Munroe, who was re- 
quired to settle up all accounts, and to sell a sufficient number 
of the lots pledged for the repayment of the loan of $200,000 
from the State of Marjdand, so as to meet all obligations of 
interest and installments. In event of an unwarrantable sac- 
rifice of tlie property to meet these demands, the sale was to 
cease, and the balance was to be paid out of the Treasury of 
the United States. Lots not paid for were also to be sold to 
meet the loan of $50,000 from the State of Maryland, or, if 
not sufficient, the residue was to be paid out of the Treasury. 

Mayors of Washington. — 1802, Robert Brent ; 1812, Daniel 
Rapine ; 1813, James H. Blake ; 1817, Benjamin G. Orr ; 1819, 
Samuel M. Small wood; 1822, T. Carberry; 1824, Roger C. 
Weightman; 1827, Joseph Gales, jr.; 1830, John P. Van 
Ness; 1834, W. A. Bradley; 1836, Peter Force ; 1840, W. W. 
Seaton ; 1850, Walter Lenox ; 1852, John W. Maury ; 1854, 
John T. Towers ; 1856, W. B. Magi'uder ; 1858, J. G. Ber- 
rett ; 1862, Richard Wallach ; 1868, S. J. Bo wen ; 1870, M. G. 
Emery. 

Governors of the District of Columbia. — 1871, Henry D. 
Cooke ; 1873, A. R. Shepherd. 

On May 3, 1802, the municipal government was created by 
Congress, to consist of a mayor and council. Congress re- 
served supreme jurisdiction. The affairs of the county, and 
the construction of roads outside the city, were intrusted to 
a board known as the levy court. On Feb. 21, 1871, the ter- 
ritorial form of government was substituted. 

The most important event in the history of the Capital 
since its foundation was the occupation by the British. The 
President (Madison) and the Cabinet, over-confident of the 
safety of the Capital, or the indisposition of the Biitish, who 
controlled the Chesapeake, to attack, had neglected to make 
suitable provisions for defense. As a consequence, about 
3,500 raw militia, hastily concentrated and badly handled, 
were suddenly called upon to confront the enemy, 4,000 
strong, at Bladensburg, 5 m. from the Capital, on August 
24, 1814. Commodore Barney, with a few hundred sailorg 
and marines, and Beall's Maryland militia, made a stubborn 
resistance on the turnpike, but, unsupported by the rest of 
the troops, who had fled almost without a fight, fell back to 
the Capital, proposing to defend that point." From here he 
was ordered to retire and take position behind Georgetown, 
leaving the city entirely defenseless. The American troop? 



HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. . 243 

retreated towards Montgomery Court House, having beep 
preceded by the President and Cabinet and other prominent 
officers of the Government. The total force of Americans 
available was 7,000 men, but through mismanagement, the 
incapacity of Gen. Winder, the commander, and tlie inter- 
ference of the President and Cabinet, especially the Secretary 
of War, not more than half that number reached the field, 
and even then were outnumbered five to one on the points of 
attack. The whole British force which landed on the Pau- 
tuxent numbered 5,123 men, of which 4,500 men took part 
in the fight . The American loss was 26 killed and 51 wounded, 
and the British 150 killed and 300 wounded. 

At 8 p. m. on the day of the battle the enemy bivouacked 
on Capitol Hill. The Capitol, Library of Congress, Presi- 
dent's House, Arsenal, Treasury and War offices. Long 
Bridge, and office of the National Intelligencer newspaper, 
were burned the same night, also some private buildings. 
The Navy Yard and frigate Columbia, on the stocks, and 
Ai'gus, five barges, and two gunboats were destroyed by 
order of the Secretary of the Navy. The explosion of pow- 
der in a well at the arsenal Idlled 15 and wounded 30 of the 
British. 

On the evening of August 25 the British evacuated the 
Capital. To use the words of one of the British officers, the 
retreat "was as cautious and stealthy and precipitate as was 
natural for a retreating army under such cu'cumstances." 
On the retreat many died of fatig-ue or were taken prisoners 
by the cavalry harassing the rear. Nearly 200 of the dead 
left by the enemy were buried by the citizens. It was esti- 
mated that his aggregate loss was not less than 1,000 men. 

The enemy reached Benedict on the evening of August 29, 
and re-embarked the next day. 

The sight of the Capital in flames had aroused the inhab- 
itants of the smTounding country, who were being rallied by 
the Secretary of State, IVIr. Monroe. It was resolved to cat 
off" the enemy's retreat to his ships. His haste, however, 
fi-ustrated these patriotic proceedings. 

When the question of the restoration of the public build- 
ings was under discussion, a long and bitter debate ensued, 
evincing not only a strong disposition to abandon the city, 
but a dangerous sectional feeling. For a time the most seri- 
ous consequences were threatened. Calmer counsels, how- 
ever, prevailed, and an appropriation of $500,000 was made 
for the repair or re-erection of the buildings on their old 
sites. The estimated loss was $1,000,000. 

In 1846 that portion of the District lying on the west bank 
of the Potomac was retroceded to Virginia. In 1850 the sale 



-244 HISTORY OF WASHINGTON. 

-of slaves was prohibited, and on April 16, 1862, slavery was 
abolished in the District. 

During the rebellion, 1861-65, the Capital had every ap- 
pearance of a vast fortress. It was the base of operations of 
tnighty armies, called out for the defense of the Constitution 
and the Union. On the surrounding hills were military 
camps ; in the city were hospitals and stores ; and the ave- 
nues and streets were the daily scene of moving troops and 
trains. 

The infusion of a new element into the population of the 
Capital was one of the important results of the rebellion of 
1861-'65. It was not, however, till a decade later that a sys- 
tem of improvements on a grand scale were commenced. In 
that time tlie number of the inhabitants increased nearly 
fifty thousand. Congress, in the meantime, had dispossessed 
itself of the idea that a IS'ational Capital was a political conve- 
nience, instead of necessity. The ideas of Washington, Jeffer- 
son, and L'Enfant, after a sleep of more than three quarters 
of a century, are being realized. The grand avenues, broad 
streets, and beautiful parks are in keeping with the magni- 
ficence of the Capitol and the imposing proportions of the 
structures occupied by the various Executive Departments 
of the Government. Elegant residences, fine churches, 
commodious school-houses, and many public and private 
institutions have been erected. It must be admitted that the 
Capital is no longer a reflection upon the taste, culture, and 
liberality of the nation, and the least inviting of American 
cities. At the same rate of improvement, in ten y^ars the 
Capital of the United States will be one of the a>c«it. beauti- 
ful in the world. These gratifying results are unar«^tion- 
ably due to the interest and zeal of President Graab, 9-ud to 
the energy and courage of Governor Shepherd. 



INDEX, 



Abbreviations: Com., Committee; E., East; F., Fresco; H., House of 
Representatives; N., North; P., Portrait of, painting ; S., Statue; Sen., 
Senate: S., South; W., West. 



Accounts, Com., 113. 

Adams, Samuel, S., 97, 99. 

Agriculture, Department of, 156, 
162. 

District of Columbia, 12. 

—— Committees on, 109, 113. 

Alexandria, 229. 

Canal, 214. 

Allen, Ethan, S., 97, 99. 

Altitude, mean, Washington, 16. 

Amusements, general, xiv. 

Anacostia river, 15, 49. 

Analostan Island, 215. 

Appropnations — Sen ,94; H., 100. 

Aqueduct, 46,217; Distributing ReS' 
ervoir, 217 : Receiving, 217 ; Cabin 
John Bridge, 218. 

Georgetown, 214. 

— - Bridge, 214. 

Architects of the Capitol, 115. 

Area of Washington, 4. 

Arlington House, 215 ; National Cem- 
etery, 215. 

Armory, 196. 

Army, Headquarters of, 136. 

Ascension Church, xiii. 

Ashburton, Lord, P., 128. 

Asylums — Naval Hospital, 203 ; Sol- 
diers' and Sailors' Orphans' 
Home, 203; Columbia Hospital 
for Women, and Lying-in, 203 ; 
"Washington, 203; Louise Home, 
204; Providence, General, 204; 
Washington City Orphan, 204; 
Children's Hospital, 205 ; St. 
John's Hospital, 205 ; St. Ann's 
Infant, 205 ; St. Joseph's Male 
Orphan, 205 ; Su Vincent's Fe- 
male Orphan, 205 ; Epiphany 
Church Home, 205 ; Home for 
the Aged, 206 ; Deaf and Dumb, 
225 ; Insane, 228. 

Attorneys-General, list of, 155. 

Avenues, 24. 

— — Description of, 25. 



Baker, Gen. E. D., S., 99. 

Baltimore and Potomac Depot, ix. 

Banking and Currency Cora,, 96, 

Baptism of Pocahontas, P., 74. 

Barracks, U. S., 172, 

Marine, 176. 

Basement, H., 112. 

Main, in. 

N. wing, no. 

Sen., 107. 

— — S. wing, 102, 

Baths, Sen., no; H., 112. 

Battle Record room, 170. 

Bedford, Gunning, P., 99. 

Benning's Bridge, 54. 

Birds, 37. 

Bladensburg, 225 ; battle-field of, 33$ ; 
duelling ground at, 225 ; Calvert 
mansion, 225. 

Battle of, 242. 

Boarding, vii. 

Boone in conflict with the Indians, 
relievo, 70. 

Boone, D., P., 102. 

Botanical Garden, 41. 

Botany, District of Columbia, 13. 

Boundaries, District of Columbia, 5. 

— — Washington, 4. 

Bridges, 52 ; Long Bridge, 52 ; Navy 
Yard, 54; Benning's, 54; Balti- 
more and Potomac Railroad, 54 ; 
Aqueduct, 54 ; Chain, 54 ; Penn- 
sylvania av., (Rock Creek,) 54; 
M St., 54 ; P St., 54 ; Cabin John, 
218 : Mountain Spring, 218. 

Bronze door, main, 67, 68, 70. 

Sen., 88. 

-— Staircases, 90. 

Burns' Davie Cottage, 5, 210. 

Cabin John Bridge, 218. 

Cabot, relievo of, 70, 

Canals — Washington, 50 ; James 
Creek, 50; Chesapeake and Ohio, 
214: Alexandria, 214. 

Canopy of the Rotunda, 80. 



(245) 



246 



INDEX. 



Capitol, 56 ; Situation, 56 ; Street 
cars to, 57; Site of, 57; Ap- 
proaches, 57 ; Grounds, 58, 60 ; 
General exterior view of, 59 ; Gen- 
eral description, 62 ; Dome, 63, 71 ; 
the Western Facade, 63 ; Statue 
of Freedom, 64 ; Porticoes, 65 ; 
Main Bronze Door, 67 ; Diagram 
Principal Story, 69 ; Attic, 104 ; 
Basement, 108 ; Rotunda, 70 ; 
Relievos, 70 ; Frieze, 70 ; The 
Dome, 71 ; Historical Painting 
Rotunda, 70, 72-79 ; Canopy of 
Rotunda, 80 ; Ascent of the Dome, 
83 ; Battery and electric gas-light- 
ing apparatus, 83 ; Vestibule, 83 ; 
Panoramic view of Washington, 
83 , Library of Congress, 81 ; N. 
wing, 83 ; Supreme Court of the 
United States, 81, 83, 84-86 ; N. 
or Sen. Extension, 86; Staircases, 
86, 87, 90, 95, 100, 103 ; Senate 
Chamber, 91 ; Com. rooms (see) ; 
Heating and ventilating, 113, 114 ; 
Law Library, no; Crypt, in; 
Undercroft, 114 ; National Statu- 
ary Hall, 96 ; S. or House Exten- 
sion, 100; Attic, 102; H,, loi ; 
Basement, 107; Architects, 115; 
History, 115, 

Hill, 15. 57- 

Selection of site of, 18. 

Capitol Spring, 221. 

Carroll, Chas., P., 99. 

Cemeteries, 206 ; Congressional, 206 ; 
Oak Hill, 211; Arlington (Mili- 
tary), 216 ; Rock Creek, 224 ; 
Military (Soldiers' Home), 224 ; 
Glenwood, 225 ; Prospect Hill, 
225 ; St. Mary's, 225 ; Mt. Olivet, 
227 ; Graceland, 228 ; National 
(Alexandria), 230. 

Census Com., 112. 

Census Office, xiv. 

Ceremonies, xiv. 

Chain Bridge, 54. 

Chasm of the Colorado, P., 105. 

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, 214, 

Chief Justices, busts of, 84. 

List of, 85. 

Churches, list of, xiii. 

Washington, 197. 

Circles— Washington, 39 : Thomas, 
39 ; 13th street, 39 ; Du Pont. 39- 

City Hall, 171. 

City Post-Office, xii. 

Civil Service Com. Sen., 103, 

Claims, U. S. Court of, 155. 

Claims Com., 105, 113. 

Clarke, Wm., P., 102. 

Clerk of the H., office, 112. 



Clinton, George, S., 97, 99. 

Climate, District of Columbia, X4. 

Cloak Rooms — Sen., 93; H., 102. 

Clock, Historical, 96, 98. 

Closets — Sen., 94, 109, 113; H., 102. 

Coinage, Weights and Measures, 112, 

Collamer, J., S., 99. 

College, Deaf, Mute, 225. 
■ Georgetown, 214. 

Columbian University, 219. 

Columbus, relievo of, S., 66, 70. 

Commissioners of Washington, 236. 

Commerce 50, Com., 105, 106. 

Congress, ir8. 

Congressional Library, 81. 

Contingent Expenses Com., 109. 

Convent of the Visitation, 212 ; Acad« 
emy, 212. 

Corcoran Gallery of Art, 189. 

Corridors — Sen., 86, 88, 89, 105, 109, 
no; Main Building, 99 ; H., 100, 
106, H2. 

Court House, District, 171. 

Crawford, sculptor, S., 99. 

Crypt, the, m. 

Deaf and Dumb Asylum, 225, 

Deaf Mute College, 225. 

Declaration of Independence, 128. 

• Signing of. P., 76. 

Defenses of Washington, 233. 

Department of State, 128 ; Treasury, 
131; War, 136 ; Navy, 140; Int&- 
rior, 142 ; Post-Office, 151 ; Jus- 
tice, 154; Agriculture, 156. 

Diagram of the Capitol, 69, 104, 108. 

Discovery of America, S. and P., 66' 

Discovery of the Mississippi River, 

P-, 73. 

Distances, Tables of, from Washing- 
ton, xix. 

District of Columbia, 5 ; Geographical 
situation, 5 ; Boundaries, 5, 237 ; 
Political Divisions, 6 ; Govern- 
ment, 6 ; Finances, 9 ; Population, 
9; Statistics, miscellaneous, 10; 
Vital Statistics, 10 ; Industry and 
Wealth, 10 ; Agriculture, 12 ; To- 
pography, 12 ; Geology, 12 ; Bot- 
any, 13; Zoology, 13; Ornithol- 
ogy, 13 ; Ichthology, 14 ; Herpe- 
tology, 14 ; Climate, 14. 

District of Columbia Com., 106, 107. 

Government, 208 ; Fire Depart- 
ment, 208 ; Metropolitan Police, 
208 ; Jail, 208. 

Document Room — Sen., 103; H.,96, 
112 ; Clerks, 113. 

Dome, Capitol, 63, 70 ; Ascent of, 83. 

Door, Main, H., 100. 

Downing, Vase, 178 

Drive, the, 29. 



INDEX. 



247 



Duddington Mansion, 2x0. 

Duelling Ground, 225. 

Elasby's Poinff, 49. 

Education Co^n., 112. 

Education, Biireau ofi 142. 

Education antl Labor Com., no, 112. 

Elections Com ., 106, 

Electric gas-lijjht apparatus, 102, 103. 

Elevations, Wiashington, 16. 

Elevator. 105. 

Emancipation, S., 28, 38. 

Embarkation of the Pilgrims, P., 75. 

Engineer's Office, 40, 114. 

Engraving and( Printing, Bureau of, 
13*. 

Enrolled Bills Com., 94. 

Envin.us of Washington— Georgetown, 
211 ; Analostan Island, 215 ; Ar- 
lington House and National Cem- 
etery, 215 ; Fort Myer, 216 ; Aque- 
duct and Falls of the Potomac, 
217; Kalorama, 219; Meridian 
Hill, 219; Columbian University, 
219; Waylaad Seminary, 221 ; 
Howard University, 219; Sol- 
diers' HomCj 222 ; Grave of L'En- 
fant, 223; Rock Creek Church 
and Cemetery, 224 ; National 
Cemetery, 224 ; Glenwood Cem- 
etery, 225 ; Bladensburg, 225 ; Co- 
lumbia Institute for the Deaf and 
Dumb, and Deaf Mute Colle£;e, 
225 ; Mt. Olivet Cemetery', 227 ; 
Graceland Cemetery, 228 ; Reform 
School, 228 ; Gfovernment Hospital 
for the Insane, 228 ; Alexandria, 
229 ; Mount Vernon, 231 ; Defea- 
ses of Washington, 233I 

Epiphany Church Home, 205, 

E'iquette, xiv. 

Executive Buildings, 55. 

Mansion (See Presid'ts House), 

120. 

Offices, 124. 

the, 126 

Extension of city, 52. 

F?.lls of ths Potomac, 218. 

Farragut Square, S., 34, 36. 

Finance Com., ?6. 

Finances, Disirict of Columbia, 9. 

Washingtt>i, 4, 

Fire Departmei.t, 308. 

Fish Ponds, 29, 

Fitch, John F. , ivtj. 

Flags, captured, 1-39.' 

Folding Room, Sen., .s*** »?•> 

Foote, Fort, 231. 

Foreign Affairs C'>' 

Foreign C^- ' 

Foreit"^ 

F- 



Fouutains, 47, 48.' 
Franklin School, 200. 

Square, 2j, 

S., 86; F., 109. 

Freedom, S., 64.. 

Frescoes— Rotunda, Frieze of the Ro- 
tunda, 70 ; Canopy, 80 ; Sen. Re- 
ception Room, 90; ,3en. Post- 
Office, 89; Presid'ts Room, 94; 
Sen. Basement, 107; Com. Rooms. 
Sen., Military Affairs, 107 ; Naval 
Affairs, 109 ; Indian, 107 ; Foreign 
Relations, 109 ; Library, 107 ; 
Westward Ho, 102 ; Washington 
at Yorktown, 102 ; Agricultural 
Com. Room, 113. 

Fulton, Robert, F., 109. 

Galleries, Sen., 105. 

H.,io6. 

Reporters', 105, 106. 

Gardens, Public Botanical, 41 ; Pro- 
pagating, 41. 

Gas, lighting the city, 45. 

General information, vii' 

Genius of America, S., 65. 

Geology, 12. , 

Georgetown, 211 ; Oak Hill Cemetery, 
211 ; High-service Reservoir, 2x3 ; 
Convent of the Visitation and 
Academy, 212 ; College, 2x3; 
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, 214; 
Aqueduct, 214 ; Wharves, 314. 

Giddings, Joshua, P., 99. 

Giesboro', 231. 

Glenwood Cemetery, 224. 

Golden Gate, P., 102. 

Government Dist. Columbia, 6, »o8. 

Seat of established, 23s. 

Govensment Printing Office, x68. 

Governor's listof, 242. 

Grand Canon of the Yellowstone, P., 
105. 

Green, General, S., 38, 97, 98. 

Guard Room, in. 

Halls— Masonic Temple, 198; Odd- 
Fellows', 198 ; Lincoln, 199. 

Hamilton, Alexander, S., 99. 

Hancock, John, S.,95. 

Harbor, improvement of, 30. 

Potomac river, 48 : Channels, 49. 

Heating and Ventilating, Sen., X07 
113; H., 113, 114, 

Herpetology, 14. 

Historic Relics, 148, 187. 

Historical Paintings, Rotunda, 73,79. 

Historical Retrospect, 55. 

Home, Soldiers', 222. 

Hospitals (see Asylums), 303, 

Hotels, vii. 

House of Representathrca, lOC ; 
Speakers uf, XX9. 



248 



INDEX. 



Ichthyology, 14. 

Illuminating Loft, Capitol, 105. 

Indian Afifaixs Corn,, 107, 112, . 

Indian Office, 142, ' 

Warrior, bronze, 102, 

Insane Asylum, Government, 228. 

Interior Department, 142 ; Secretary's 
Office, 142 ; Indian Office, 142 ; 
Bureau of Education, 142 ; Secre- 
taries, 144; The Departn:ient, 144 
(see Patent OiBce). 

- — -^ Secretaries, list of, 144. 

luvalid Pensions, 113. 

lackson, S., 34, 35. 

Jail, 208. 

JeflFerson School, 202. 

S., 96, 99, 100. 

Jones' Point, 6, 230. 

Judiciary, The, 85^ 

'- — - Square, 37. 

Judiciary Com., 106, 109. 

justice. Department of, 154 ; Attor- 
ney-General's Office, 154 ; Por- 
traits of Attorneys-General, 155 ; 
Historj', 155. 

Justice and History, S., 89. 

Justices Supreme Court, Busts of, 84. 

Kalorama, 219. 

King, Wm., S., 97, 99. 

La Salle, relievo, 70. 

Lafayette Square, 34. 

-P., 98. 

Lake, The, 29. 

Landing of Columbus, P., 720 

Landing of the Pilgrims, relievo, 70. 

Law Colleges — Columbian, 201 ; 
Georgetown, 201. 

Law Library, no. 

L' Enfant, Plan of Washington, 16; 
origin of plan, 19. 

— r— Grave of, 223. 

Liberty, S., 97. 

Librarians of the United States, 82, 

Libraries — Congressional, 8i ; Sen., 
102; H,, 106; Law Library, no; 
Library Com., 107, ji».; Smith- 
sonian,. 181; Odd Fellows', 199 ; 
Young Men's Christian Associa- 
tion, 199; Gfcorgetown College, 
214. 

Lighting the city, 45. 

Lincoln, Bust of, 99. 

Mosaic, 99. 

Square, 38. 

S., 3S, 09. 

Lincoln Hall, 109. 

Livingston, Robert, S., 97, ^y. 

Lobbies, Sen., 91 ; H... loo. 

Lodgings, vii. 

I.iOng Brkige; 52. 

Louise Home, 204. 



Magazines, 177. j 

Mails, the, xii. ; 

Mall, the, 19, 22, 29. [ 
Manufactures Com., ny, H2, 113, 
Marble Room, 93. , 

Marine barracks, 176, | 
Markets, 209 ; Centre, 209 ; Eastere, 
209; Western, 209;; Northern, 209. 
Masonic Temple, 198.. 
iMason's Island, 215. 
I Mayors of Washington., 242. 
j .Mcpherson Sijuare, S., 29, 35. 
Medical Colleges— Columbian, 201 ; 
Georgetown, 201. \ 
I Meridian Hill; 219. | 
j Military Affiiirs Com., Sen., 107, 
i 111 ; H., 100. 

j Militia and Mileage Com., 107. 

Mineralogy, 13. 
I Mines and Mining Com,, 105, 112. 
! Model Room, 114. 
I Monument of Peace, 27. 
{ Monument, Washington Nat'l, 192. 
I Mount Vernon, 231, 

— Place, 37. 
j Mountain Spnng Bn'dge, 218. 
Museum, Agricultural, 159 ; Army 
Meidical, 167; Ordnance, 170; 
Naval, 174; National, i8a ; (Joi* 
coran Gallery of Art, 189. 
Myer, Fort, 216. 
National Museum, 182, 188. 
Naval Affairs Com., Sen., 109; H., 

102. 
Naval Hospital, 205. 

Observatory, 163. 

Naval Statue, 27. 

Navy Department, 129, 140; Object* 
of Interest, 140; Library, 140; 
Secretary's Office, 140; Secretar- 
ies, 140 ; History, 142. 
— — Yard, 174. 

Yard Bridge, 53. 

;'"fewspaper offices, 200. 
! Oak Hill Cemetery, 211. 
(Jbservatory, Naval, 163. 
Octagon, The, 126. 
! (3dd Fellows' H.all, 198. 
I Ordn.'ince office, 17b; Museum, 170. 
I Ornithology, 13. 

i Pacific Railroads Com., ifs, Atfi.. 
' Paintings, Historical, Rotund^S72-79; 
I Perry's Victory on L.-.Er^,. 86; 

I Storming o( Chepuhepeai 95 ; 

( Grand Caiio;i of me Vei^owsitoue, 

] 105 ; Chasm of the Colorado, 105 ; 

' nts, i22-i2'4; Secre- 
•r, 13S; Attorrieys- 
Secretaries of 
-^. Emanci- 
. "-'tie. 



INDEX. 



249 



ment of California, 102 ; Discov- 
ery of ihe Hudson, 102. 

Parks (see Reservations and Squares). 

Patent Office, 137, 144, 145: Model 
Rooms, 146-150 ; Historic Relics, 
148 ; History, 151. 

Patents Com., no. 

Pavements, 24. 

Peace, Monument of, 27, 

Peace, S., 66. 

Pean, W., conference with Indians, 
relievo, 70. 

Pensions Com., no. 

Perry's Victory on Lake Erie, P., 86. 

Places of Historical Interest, 210. 

Plant Houses, 162. 

Pocahontas saving life of Smith, re- 
lievo, 70. 

Police, Metropolitan, 208; Capitol, 
III. 

Political Divisions D. C, 7. 

Population, District, 9. 

Washington, 4. 

Postmasters-General, 153. 

Post Office, City, xii. 

Capitol, 112; Sen., 89; H., 112. 

Post Office, General, 151 ; Postmas- 
ters-General, 153 ; The Dpart- 
ment, 158. 

Post Offices and Post Roads Com., 
109, 112. 

Potomac, Falls of, 217, 218. 

the drive to, 217. 

River, 48. 

President's House, 120; Grounds, 
120 ; Conservatories, 122 ; Sta- 
bles, 122 ; Exterior, 120; Interior, 
122, 124 ; History, 125 ; Presi- 
dents, 126; The Executive, 126; 
Portraits, 122-124 ; State China, 
124. 

President's Room, Capitol, 94, 95. 

Printing Com,, 105, 112. 

Private Land Claims Com., 105, 113. 

Privileges and Elections Com., 105. 

Progress of Civilization, S., 66. 

Propagating Garden, 41. 

Providence General Hospital, 204. 

Public Buildings and Grounds Com., 
105, 112. 

Public Lands Com., 106, no 

Railroads, viii, 54. 

Railways and Canals Com., 106. 

Raleigh, relievo, 70. 

Rawlins Square, 37. 

S., 39 

Reception Room, Sen., go. 

Refectory, Sen., no; H., 112. 

Reform School, 228. 

Reporters' Gall'-'-y (press), Sen,, 105 ; 
H.. n2. 



Reporters' Rooms (official), Sen., 89. 

Representatives, Hall of, loi ; Old 
Hall, 96. 

Offices, 102. 

Reservations, 21,22. 

Reservoir — see Aqueduct, 217. 

High Service, 212. 

Resignation of Washington, P., 79. 

Restaurants, viii. 

Retiring Room, Representatives, Cap- 
itol, 102, 103 ; Reporters', 105, 
106 ; Ladies, Sen., 105 ; H., 106. 

Revision of the Laws Com., 107, 112. 

Revolutionary Claims, 105. 

Rock Creek, 11, 15. 

Bridge, 53, 214. 

Rock Creek Church and Cemetery, 
224. 

Rotunda, 70 ; Statuary, 70 ; Relievos, 
70 ; Historical paintings, 70-79 ; 
Canopy, 80; Allegory, 80; 
Frieze, 70 ; Ascent of the Dome, 

83. 
Rules Com., no, 112. 
School, Reform, 228. 
Franklin, 200, 202 ; Seaton, 202 ; 

Wallach, 202 ; Jefferson, 202. 

Colored, 202 ; Sumner, 202. 

History of, 202. 

Scott Square, 36. 

Winfield, S., 23, 36, 223. 

Senate, 120. 

Chamber, 91 ; Offices, 95. 

— — Presidents of, 119. 
Sergeant-at-Arms, Sen., Room of, 89; 

H., IQ2. 

Settlement of America, S., 66. 

Sewers, 32, 33. 

Sherman, Roger, S., 97, 98. 

Signal Office, 139. 

Signing the Emancipation Proclama- 
tion, 100. 

Smithsonian Inst'n, 178 ; Downing 
Vase, 178; Building 180; Objects, 
180; Secretaries, 181; History, 
181 ; National Museum, 182, 188. 

Soldiers' Home, 222. 

Speakers, H,, 119; Office, 102 ; Gal- 
lery of, 102. 

Squares — Lafayette, 34; McPherson, 
35 ; Scott, 36 ; Farragut, 36 ; 
Franklin, 37; Judiciary, 37; 
Rawlins, 37; Mt. Vernon Place, 
37 ; Green, 38 ; Lincoln, 38 ; 
Stanton Place, 38. 

St. Ann's Infant Asylum, 205. 

St. Elizabeth's, 229; 

St. John's Hospital, 205. 

St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum.aos. 

St. Vincent's Female Orphan Asy- 
lum, 205. 



INDEX. 



Stables, President's, 123. 

Staircases, Sen., E., 86, 87; W., 95. 
H., E., 100; W., 106 : Bronze, 90. 

State, Department of, 127 ; Archives, 
128; Objects of Interest, 128; 
Secretaries, 130; History, 130. 

Secretaries of, 130 ; Photographs, 

ISO- 
Stationery Room, Sen., 96. 

Statistics, District, 10 ; Vital, 10 ; In- 
dustry and Wealth, 10. 

Statuary — See name of subject. 

Statuary Hall, 96, 98. 

Steamers, ix. 

Store Rooms, 103, 106, 112. 

Storming of Chepultepec, P., 95, 105. 

Street Cars, viii. 

Street Railways, 54. 

Streets, 24, 25, 30 ; renomenclature, 31. 

Sub-basement, Sen., 113 ; H., 114. 

Sumner School, 201. 

Supreme Court of the United States, 
83, 84 ; Chamber, 84 ; Busts of 
Chief Justices, 84 ; Sessions of, 
84; the Chamber when occupied 
by the Senate, 85 ; Chief Justices, 
85 ; The Judiciary, 85 ; Robing 
Room, 85; Offices, 86; Confer- 
ence Room, 110; Files, jio. 

Surrender of Burgoyne, P., 77. 

Surrender of Cornwailis, P., 78. 

Telegraph, 54. 

Official, Sen., 86; H., 100. 

Press, Sen., 105; H., 106. 

Territorial Delegates, 112. 

Territories Com., 109, 112. 

Theatres, xiv. 

Thomas, S. and Circle, 33, 39. 

Tiber, 16, 32. 

Time, difference of, xx. 

Topography, District, 12. 

Washington, 15. 

Transportation Com., 105. 

Treasurj' Department, 131 ; Objects 
of Interest, 131, 132 ; Cash room, 
131 ; Vaults, 132 ; Photographer's 
Office, 132 ; Coast Survey, 135 ; 
Portraits of Secretaries, 135 ; 
History, 135. 

Treaty of Peace, F., 109. 

Triangles, 37. 

Trumbull, Jonathan, S,, 97, 98. 

Undercroft, The, 114. 

Universities — Georgetown, 213, 214; 
Columbian, 219, 220; Howard, 
219, 221. 

Uniontown, 228. 

Vault, 114. 

Van Ness Mansion, 9, 210. 



Vault or Undercroft, 114. 

Vehicles for hire, xii. 

Vestibule, Sen., 89, 110; Main Build* 
ing, 67,96, III ; H., 100, 112. 

Vice Presidents U. S., list of, 119. 

Vice President's room, 91. 

Views of Washington, 15. 

Wallach School, 201. 

War Claims Com,, 113. 

War Department, 129, 136; Secre- 
tary's office, 136 ; Headquarters 
of the Army, 136; Portraits of 
Generals, 136, 138 ; Paintings of 
life on frontiers, 136; Sketches of 
the War, 136 ; Mexican Sketches, 
138; Library, 138; Flag room, 
139 ; Signal Office, 139 ; the De- 
partment, 139. 

Secretaries of, gallery of, 137. 

S., 66. 

Washington, Defenses of, 233. 

Differences of time, xx. 

Distances from, xix. 

Fort, 231. 

Washington City a Virgin Capital, i ; 
Geographical location, 2 ; Selec- 
tion of site, 2 ; Distances, xix, 4 ; 
Area, 4; Government, 4; Finan- 
ces, 4; Population, 4; Statistics, 
10; Foreign Capitals, 4 ; Topog- 
raphy, 15; Plan of City, 16; Ex- 
ecution of, 18 ; Origin of plan, 19 ; 
History of, 235. 

Washington, Geo., P., Peale's, 91 ; 
Vanderlyn, 98 ; Stuart, 99, 122. 

Washington, Geo., S., Greenough, 
60, 61 ; Mills, 21, 39 ; Houdon's 
copy of, 99; early statue pro- 
posed, 18. 

Tomb of, 231. 

Martha, grave of, 231. 

Washington National Monument, 192. 

Washington, Views of, 3, 7, 17. 

Water supply, 46; Early schemes, 
48; Aqueduct, 217; Experimen- 
tal surveys, 219. 

Wayland Seminary, 221, 222. 

Ways and Means Com., 100. 

Webster, D., P., 128. 

West, Benj., P., 99. 

Westward Ho, 102. 

Wharves, 50. 

Georgetown, 214. 

White House — see Prest's House, lao 

Williams, Roger, S., 97, 98. 

Winder's Building, 170. 

Winthrop, John, S., 97, 99. 

Young Men's Christian Ass'n, 199. 

Zoology, District, 13, 



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